Question ID 2b08f514

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2b08f514
The prime meridian, the global indicator of zero degrees longitude established in 1884, was originally determined using
astronomically derived coordinates. ______ as decades passed, new calculations would reveal increasingly precise
coordinates, yet the prime meridian remained unchanged; it wasn’t until the 1980s that, spurred by improved geodetic
data, the prime meridian was officially moved—roughly one hundred meters east.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Specifically,

B. To that end,

C. Again and again,

D. Granted,

ID: 2b08f514 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "Again and again" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that new
calculations revealed increasingly precise coordinates for the location of the prime meridian—refers to events that
occurred multiple times in the decades after the establishment of the prime meridian in 1884 (which is described in the
preceding sentence).

Choice A is incorrect because "specifically" illogically signals that the information in this sentence provides specific,
precise details elaborating on the description of the prime meridian’s establishment in the previous sentence. Instead, the
sentence indicates that increasingly precise coordinates were revealed on multiple occasions in the decades following
the meridian’s establishment. Choice B is incorrect because "to that end" illogically signals that the information in this
sentence is a means of accomplishing a goal established in the previous sentence about the prime meridian’s
establishment. Instead, the sentence indicates that increasingly precise coordinates were revealed on multiple occasions
in the decades following the meridian’s establishment. Choice D is incorrect because "granted" illogically signals that the
information in this sentence is in opposition to the information about the prime meridian’s establishment in the previous
sentence. Instead, the sentence indicates that increasingly precise coordinates were revealed on multiple occasions in
the decades following the meridian’s establishment.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e0bd4f8a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: e0bd4f8a
In 1942, the 1,500-mile Alaska Highway was constructed in under nine months, largely due to the skilled work of nearly
4,000 African American soldiers from US Army engineering regiments. The soldiers’ contribution was overlooked for
decades. ______ in 2017, lawmakers declared October 25 a day of recognition—“Alaska Highway Day”—for the troops who
helped build this critical roadway.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Lastly,

B. Then,

C. Similarly,

D. For example,

ID: e0bd4f8a Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Then" logically signals that the event described in this sentence—lawmakers’ 2017
declaration of Alaska Highway Day—is part of a chronological sequence of events, occurring after the decades-long
period in which the soldiers’ contribution was overlooked.

Choice A is incorrect because "lastly" illogically signals that this sentence presents the last of a series of points or
reasons. Instead, it describes a later event occurring in a chronological sequence of events. Choice C is incorrect
because "similarly" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is similar to the previous information about the
soldiers’ contribution being overlooked for decades. Instead, it describes an event occurring after that decades-long
period. Choice D is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that this sentence provides an example illustrating
the previous information about the soldiers’ contribution being overlooked for decades. Instead, it describes an event
occurring after that decades-long period.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 660d50dc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 660d50dc
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor was a prominent classical music composer from England who toured the US three times in the
early 1900s. The child of a West African father and an English mother, Coleridge-Taylor emphasized his mixed-race
ancestry. For example, he referred to himself as Anglo-African. ______ he incorporated the sounds of traditional African
music into his classical music compositions.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In addition,

B. Actually,

C. However,

D. Regardless,

ID: 660d50dc Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “In addition” logically signals that the detail in this sentence—that Coleridge-Taylor included
traditional African music in his classical compositions—adds to the information in the previous sentence. Specifically, the
previous sentence indicates one way in which Coleridge-Taylor emphasized his mixed-race ancestry, and the claim that
follows indicates a second, additional way.

Choice B is incorrect because “actually” illogically signals that the detail in this sentence is surprising in light of the
information in the previous sentence. Instead, the detail adds to the information, indicating a second, additional way in
which Coleridge-Taylor emphasized his mixed-race ancestry. Choice C is incorrect because “however” illogically signals
that the detail in this sentence contrasts with the information in the previous sentence. Instead, the detail adds to the
information, indicating a second, additional way in which Coleridge-Taylor emphasized his mixed-race ancestry. Choice D
is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the detail in this sentence is true despite the information in the
previous sentence. Instead, the detail adds to the information, indicating a second, additional way in which Coleridge-
Taylor emphasized his mixed-race ancestry.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 4d2736f0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4d2736f0
In her poetry collection Thomas and Beulah, Rita Dove interweaves the titular characters’ personal stories with broader
historical narratives. She places Thomas’s journey from the American South to the Midwest in the early 1900s within the
larger context of the Great Migration. ______ Dove sets events from Beulah’s personal life against the backdrop of the US
Civil Rights Movement.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Specifically,

B. Thus,

C. Regardless,

D. Similarly,

ID: 4d2736f0 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Similarly” logically signals that the information in the sentence—that Dove situates Beulah’s
life in the context of the US Civil Rights Movement—is similar to the previous information about Thomas and the Great
Migration. Both sentences support the first sentence’s claim that Dove portrays her characters in the context of broader
historical narratives.

Choice A is incorrect because “specifically” illogically signals that the information about Beulah in this sentence provides
specific details elaborating on the previous information about Thomas. Instead, it’s similar to the previous information
about Thomas. Choice B is incorrect because “thus” illogically signals that the information about Beulah in this sentence
is a result or consequence of the previous information about Thomas. Instead, it’s similar to the previous information
about Thomas. Choice C is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the information about Beulah in this
sentence is true despite the previous information about Thomas. Instead, it’s similar to the previous information about
Thomas.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a40c7aa3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a40c7aa3
Most of the planets that have been discovered outside our solar system orbit G-type stars, like our Sun. In 2014, ______
researchers identified a planet orbiting KELT-9, a B-type star more than twice as massive and nearly twice as hot as the
Sun. Called KELT-9b, it is one of the hottest planets ever discovered.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. likewise,

B. however,

C. therefore,

D. for example,

ID: a40c7aa3 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The word “however” logically signals that the information in this sentence about the planet
KELT-9b—that it orbits a B-type star—contrasts with the previous information about planets discovered outside our solar
system. Most of these planets orbit G-type stars, not B-type stars.

Choice A is incorrect because “likewise” illogically signals that the information about the planet KELT-9b is similar to the
previous information about most planets outside our solar system. Instead, it contrasts with that information. Choice C is
incorrect because “therefore” illogically signals that the information about the planet KELT-9b is a result of the previous
information about most planets outside our solar system. Instead, it contrasts with that information. Choice D is
incorrect because “for example” illogically signals that the information about the planet KELT-9b is an example of the
previous information about most planets outside our solar system. Instead, it contrasts with that information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 00221c00
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 00221c00
In 1815, while in exile in Jamaica, Venezuelan revolutionary Simón Bolívar penned a letter praising England’s republican
government and expressing hope that Latin American nations seeking independence from Spain might achieve
something similar. The letter was addressed to a local merchant, Henry Cullen; ______ though, Bolívar’s goal was to
persuade political leaders from England and Europe to support his cause.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. additionally,

B. ultimately,

C. accordingly,

D. consequently,

ID: 00221c00 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Ultimately” means “in the long run” or “at the highest level.” Although Bolívar wrote to a local
merchant, his ultimate goal was to send a message to political leaders in Europe. Therefore, “ultimately” fits perfectly in
this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. However, the second
part of the sentence actually disagrees with the first part. Bolívar addressed the letter to Cullen, but he was really sending
a message to someone else. Notice how the contrast word “though” also acts as a transition between these ideas.
Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition. Bolívar’s writing of the letter to Cullen would not
cause him to have a goal of persuading European powers to support him. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a
cause-and-effect transition. Bolívar’s writing of the letter to Cullen would not cause him to have a goal of persuading
European powers to support him.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e3edc138
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: e3edc138
In a heated debate in biogeography, the field is divided between dispersalists and vicariancists. ______ there are those
who argue that dispersal is the most crucial determining factor in a species’ distribution, and those who insist that
vicariance (separation due to geographic barriers) is. Biogeographer Isabel Sanmartín counts herself among neither.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Furthermore,

B. By contrast,

C. Similarly,

D. That is,

ID: e3edc138 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “That is” logically signals that this sentence clarifies the terms of the scientific debate
introduced in the previous sentence by explaining the difference between dispersalists and vicariancists.

Choice A is incorrect because “furthermore” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely additional to
(and separate from) the information in the previous sentence about the scientific debate. Instead, the information about
dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that debate. Choice B is incorrect because “by contrast” illogically
signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the information in the previous sentence about the scientific
debate. Instead, the information about dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that debate. Choice C is
incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely similar to the information in
the previous sentence about the scientific debate. Instead, the information about dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies
the terms of that debate.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID af89fa02
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: af89fa02
The Babylonian king Hammurabi achieved much during his forty-year reign. He conquered all of Mesopotamia and built
Babylon into one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world. Today, ______ he is mainly remembered for a code of
laws inscribed on a seven-foot-tall block of stone: the Code of Hammurabi.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. therefore,

B. likewise,

C. however,

D. for instance,

ID: af89fa02 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “However” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Hammurabi is mainly
remembered for just a single achievement, the Code of Hammurabi—is contrary to what might be assumed from the
previous information about Hammurabi’s many achievements.

Choice A is incorrect because “therefore” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a result of the
previous information about Hammurabi’s many achievements. Instead, this sentence makes a point that is contrary to
what might be assumed from the previous information. Choice B is incorrect because “likewise” illogically signals that
the information in this sentence is similar to the previous information about Hammurabi’s many achievements. Instead,
this sentence makes a point that is contrary to what might be assumed from the previous information. Choice D is
incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that this sentence exemplifies the previous information about
Hammurabi’s many achievements. Instead, this sentence makes a point that is contrary to what might be assumed from
the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID d9dad012
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: d9dad012
The Inca of South America used intricately knotted string devices called quipus to record countable information, like
population data and payments. ______ they may have used quipus to record more complex information, like stories and
myths, according to researchers.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. In other words,

C. In addition,

D. For example,

ID: d9dad012 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "In addition" logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that the Inca of South America
may have used quipus to record more complex information—is an additional point related to the previous statement
about the Inca using quipus to record countable information.

Choice A is incorrect because "as a result" illogically signals that the claim in the sentence is a consequence or result of
the previous statement about the Inca using quipus to record countable information. Instead, the possibility that the Inca
used quipus to record more complex information is an additional point about how the quipus were used. Choice B is
incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the claim in the sentence is merely a paraphrase or restatement
of the previous statement about the Inca using quipus to record countable information. Instead, the possibility that the
Inca used quipus to record more complex information is an additional point about how the quipus were used. Choice D is
incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that the claim in the sentence exemplifies the previous statement
about the Inca using quipus to record countable information. Instead, the possibility that the Inca used quipus to record
more complex information is an additional point about how the quipus were used.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 601b9d18
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 601b9d18
Some members of the US Supreme Court have resisted calls to televise the court’s oral arguments, concerned that the
participants would be tempted to perform for the cameras (and thus lower the quality of the discourse). ______ the
justices worry that most viewers would not even watch the full deliberations, only short clips that could be misinterpreted
and mischaracterized.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. Additionally,

C. In comparison,

D. For example,

ID: 601b9d18 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Additionally” logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that some Supreme Court
justices worry that viewers (of televised court arguments) would watch only short, misleading clips—adds to the
information in the previous sentence. Specifically, the previous sentence indicates one concern raised by those opposed
to televising the court’s oral arguments, and the claim that follows indicates a second, additional concern.

Choice A is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence contrasts with the information
in the previous sentence. Instead, the claim adds to the information, indicating a second, additional concern that some
Supreme Court justices have about televising the court’s arguments. Choice C is incorrect because “in comparison”
illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is being compared to the information in the previous sentence. Instead,
the claim adds to the information, indicating a second, additional concern that some Supreme Court justices have about
televising the court’s arguments. Choice D is incorrect because “for example” illogically signals that the claim in this
sentence exemplifies the information in the previous sentence. Instead, the claim adds to the information, indicating a
second, additional concern that some Supreme Court justices have about televising the court’s arguments.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 60917233
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 60917233
In the 1880s, inventor Lewis Latimer improved upon Thomas Edison’s design for the electric light bulb. ______ Latimer
made the light bulb more durable by placing cardboard around its carbon filament. With this innovation, Latimer became
the first Black inventor to contribute to the electrification of the world.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Soon,

B. Regardless,

C. However,

D. Specifically,

ID: 60917233 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Specifically" logically signals that the information in this sentence—Latimer making the light
bulb more durable—provides a specific detail elaborating on the more general claim in the previous sentence that Latimer
improved the light bulb.

Choice A is incorrect because "soon" illogically signals that the information in this sentence occurred shortly after
Latimer improved the light bulb. Instead, Latimer making the bulb more durable was the specific improvement. Choice B
is incorrect because "regardless" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is true despite the previous claim
about Latimer. Instead, the information about Latimer making the bulb more durable provides a specific detail
elaborating on that claim. Choice C is incorrect because "however" illogically signals that the information in this sentence
contrasts with the previous claim about Latimer. Instead, the information about Latimer making the bulb more durable
provides a specific detail elaborating on that claim.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID ec3d7605
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ec3d7605
Award-winning travel writer Linda Watanabe McFerrin considers the background research she conducts on destinations
featured in her travel books to be its own reward. ______ McFerrin admits to finding the research phase of her work just as
fascinating and engaging as exploring a location in person.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. By contrast,

B. Likewise,

C. Besides,

D. In fact,

ID: ec3d7605 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “In fact” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that McFerrin finds the
research phase of her work to be just as fascinating as travel—emphasizes and elaborates on the previous sentence’s
point that McFerrin regards background research as a rewarding activity.

Choice A is incorrect because “by contrast” illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the
previous sentence’s point about McFerrin’s attitude toward background research. Instead, it emphasizes and elaborates
on that point. Choice B is incorrect because “likewise” illogically signals that this sentence merely adds a second, similar
point to the previous sentence’s point about McFerrin’s attitude toward background research. Instead, it emphasizes and
elaborates on that point. Choice C is incorrect because “besides” illogically signals that this sentence provides a separate
point in addition to, or apart from, the previous sentence’s point about McFerrin’s attitude toward background research.
Instead, it emphasizes and elaborates on that point.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID a819d8b6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a819d8b6
In 1873, Spanish scientist Santiago Ramón y Cajal observed that brain fibers have distinct boundaries with clear end
points, a finding that went against earlier assumptions about the brain. ______ scientists had assumed that the brain was
a continuous web of fused fibers, not a vast network of distinct, individual cells.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. Previously,

C. As a result,

D. Likewise,

ID: a819d8b6 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Previously” logically signals that the fused fiber theory came before Ramón y Cajal’s
discovery.

Choice A is incorrect. “However” illogically signals that the fused fiber theory in this sentence contrasts with the
information in the previous sentence. While this theory does contrast with Ramón y Cajal’s discovery, the previous
sentence concludes by stating that his discovery went against prior assumptions about the brain. The fact that the fused
fiber theory was one of those earlier assumptions makes “however” an illogical choice. Choice C is incorrect because “as
a result” illogically signals that the fused fiber theory in this sentence was a result of the discovery in the previous
sentence. Instead, the fused fiber theory came before Ramón y Cajal’s discovery. Choice D is incorrect because “likewise”
illogically signals that the fused fiber theory in this sentence was similar to the discovery in the previous sentence.
Instead, the fused fiber theory, which came before Ramón y Cajal’s discovery, was very different from it.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 42e6cc83
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 42e6cc83
In hindsight, given the ideas about the natural world circulating among British scientists in the 1800s, the theory of
natural selection was an obvious next step. It may not have been a coincidence, ______ that Charles Darwin and Alfred
Wallace arrived at the concept independently. Indeed, contrary to the popular myth of the lone genius, theirs is not the
first paradigm-shifting theory to have emerged from multiple scholars working in parallel.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. however,

B. then,

C. moreover,

D. for example,

ID: 42e6cc83 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Then" signals that this sentence’s claim about Darwin and Wallace follows logically from
the previous information. In other words, both scientists independently arriving at the theory of natural selection was,
arguably, an expected outcome of the circumstances mentioned in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because "however" illogically signals that the claim in this sentence contrasts with the previous
information about the ideas circulating among British scientists in the 1800s. Instead, this claim follows logically from
that information. Choice C is incorrect because "moreover" illogically signals that the claim in this sentence merely adds
to the previous information about the ideas circulating among British scientists in the 1800s. Instead, this claim follows
logically from that information. Choice D is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that this sentence provides
an example supporting the previous information about the ideas circulating among British scientists in the 1800s.
Instead, it presents a claim that follows logically from that information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 326017ce
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 326017ce
For years, biologists have experimented with using grime-eating bacteria rather than harsh chemicals to clean artworks,
and results have been impressive overall. ______ these bacterial strains—which can metabolize centuries’ worth of oil,
glue, dirt, and other surface impurities without creating harmful byproducts—have proven more effective than traditional
chemical cleaning methods.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. In many cases,

C. As a result,

D. Additionally,

ID: 326017ce Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The first sentence makes the claim that using grime-eating bacteria has led to “impressive
results.” This sentence supports that claim by describing the specific findings of the biologists’ experimentation. The
transition “in many cases” fits the context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the previous
sentence. Both claim that grime-eating bacteria are better at cleaning artworks than chemicals. Choice C is incorrect.
This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense in context. The fact that the results of the
experimentation have been impressive overall doesn’t cause the bacteria to have proven more effective. Choice D is
incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of a new idea. But this sentence doesn’t introduce a
new idea. Instead, it elaborates on the same idea laid out in the previous sentence by describing the “impressive results”
in more detail.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID c78620ba
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: c78620ba
In 1968, US Congressman John Conyers introduced a bill to establish a national holiday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King
Jr. The bill didn’t make it to a vote, but Conyers was determined. He teamed up with Shirley Chisholm, the first Black
woman to be elected to Congress, and they resubmitted the bill every session for the next fifteen years. ______ in 1983,
the bill passed.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Instead,

B. Likewise,

C. Finally,

D. Additionally,

ID: c78620ba Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Finally” logically signals that the bill passing—following many attempts between 1968 and
1983—is the final, concluding event in the sequence described in the previous sentences.

Choice A is incorrect because “instead” illogically signals that the bill passing is an alternative to one of the events
described in the previous sentences. Instead, it is the final event in the sequence. Choice B is incorrect because
“likewise” illogically signals that the bill passing is similar to one of the events described in the previous sentences.
Instead, it is the final event in the sequence. Choice D is incorrect because “additionally” illogically signals that the bill
passing is merely another event described along with the events of the previous sentences. Instead, it is the final,
concluding event in the sequence.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 20733eac
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 20733eac
It has long been thought that humans first crossed a land bridge into the Americas approximately 13,000 years ago.
______ based on radiocarbon dating of samples uncovered in Mexico, a research team recently suggested that humans
may have arrived more than 30,000 years ago—much earlier than previously thought.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. Similarly,

C. However,

D. In conclusion,

ID: 20733eac Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “However” logically signals that the theory discussed in this sentence—that humans may
have arrived in the Americas over 30,000 years ago—contrasts with the previously discussed theory that humans arrived
around 13,000 years ago.

Choice A is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals that the theory in this sentence is the result of the theory
discussed in the previous sentence. Instead, this theory contrasts with the previous one. Choice B is incorrect because
“similarly” illogically signals that the theory in this sentence is similar to the theory discussed in the previous sentence.
Instead, this theory contrasts with the previous one. Choice D is incorrect because “in conclusion” illogically signals that
the theory in this sentence concludes or summarizes the discussion of the previous theory. Instead, this theory contrasts
with the previous one.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f07570bb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: f07570bb
Researchers believe that pieces of hull found off Oregon’s coast are from a Spanish cargo ship that was lost in 1697.
Stories passed down among the area’s Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians support this belief. ______ Siletz stories
describe how blocks of beeswax, an item the ship had been carrying, began washing ashore after the ship was lost.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For this reason,

B. For example,

C. However,

D. Likewise,

ID: f07570bb Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “For example” logically signals that the Siletz beeswax stories mentioned in this sentence
are examples consistent with the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory.

Choice A is incorrect because “for this reason” illogically signals that the Siletz stories about the beeswax were caused
by the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory. Instead, the beeswax stories are examples
consistent with the claim. Choice C is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the Siletz stories about the
beeswax contrast with the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory. Instead, the beeswax stories
are examples consistent with the claim. Choice D is incorrect because “likewise” illogically signals that the Siletz stories
about the beeswax are similar to the previous claim that Siletz stories support the shipwreck theory. Instead, the
beeswax stories are examples consistent with the claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 221ecf0f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 221ecf0f
Alexander Lawrence Posey (1873–1908) varied his focus and tone depending on the genre in which he was writing. In his
poetry, he used heartfelt language to evoke the beauty and peacefulness of his natural surroundings; in his journalism,
______ he employed humor and satire to comment on political issues affecting his Muskogee Creek community.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. that is,

B. granted,

C. similarly,

D. by contrast,

ID: 221ecf0f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. This sentence compares two examples of Posey’s tone: the “heartfelt language” he used in
his poetry versus the “humor and satire” he used in his journalism. We know from these descriptions and from the claim
in the previous sentence that the two tones are very different from each other. So the transition “by contrast” fits the
context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea in other words. But the
text isn’t restating the first example here. Instead, it’s offering a second, totally different example. Choice B is incorrect.
This choice uses a transition that means “admittedly.” But the text isn’t admitting or conceding anything here. Instead,
these two examples work together to support the claim made in the first sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This choice
uses a transition that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. But these two examples are intentionally very different
from each other, so “similarly” doesn’t make sense here.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 92fe0ed7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 92fe0ed7
Geoscientists have long considered Hawaii’s Mauna Loa volcano to be Earth’s largest shield volcano by volume,
measuring approximately 74,000 cubic kilometers. ______ according to a 2020 study by local geoscientist Michael Garcia,
Hawaii’s Pūhāhonu shield volcano is significantly larger, boasting a volume of about 148,000 cubic kilometers.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Secondly,

B. Consequently,

C. Moreover,

D. However,

ID: 92fe0ed7 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “However” logically signals that this sentence, which indicates that the Pūhāhonu volcano
may be larger than the Mauna Loa volcano, offers a contrast to or refutation of the previous assumption that Mauna Loa
is the largest shield volcano.

Choice A is incorrect because “secondly” illogically signals that this sentence merely offers an additional or secondary
point concerning the previous assumption that Mauna Loa is the largest shield volcano. Instead, the sentence offers a
contrast to or refutation of that assumption. Choice B is incorrect because “consequently” illogically signals that this
sentence offers a result or consequence of the previous assumption that Mauna Loa is the largest shield volcano.
Instead, the sentence offers a contrast to or refutation of that assumption. Choice C is incorrect because “moreover”
illogically signals that this sentence merely adds to the previous assumption that Mauna Loa is the largest shield
volcano. Instead, the sentence offers a contrast to or refutation of that assumption.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID a965c6ed
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a965c6ed
A turtle shell appears external to the animal, protecting its body like armor. ______ the shell is often incorrectly assumed
to be an exoskeleton, a rigid outer casing like that of a crustacean or an insect, when in fact it is an endoskeleton, a part
of the turtle’s internal bone structure, more akin to a spine or a pair of ribs.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. That being said,

B. However,

C. For instance,

D. Hence,

ID: a965c6ed Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Hence" logically signals that the information in this sentence about turtle shells—that
people incorrectly assume they are exoskeletons—is a consequence of the shells appearing external to the animal.

Choice A is incorrect because "that being said" illogically signals that this sentence qualifies or contrasts with the
previous information about turtle shells appearing external to the animal. Instead, it presents a consequence of that
information. Choice B is incorrect because "however" illogically signals that this sentence contrasts with the previous
information about turtle shells appearing external to the animal. Instead, it presents a consequence of that information.
Choice C is incorrect because "for instance" illogically signals that this sentence provides an example supporting the
previous information about turtle shells appearing external to the animal. Instead, it presents a consequence of that
information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 97e2e364
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 97e2e364
Okot p’Bitek’s poem Song of Lawino (1966) explores postcolonial Ugandan life through the eyes of a woman living in a
rural village. With its vibrant imagery, bitingly satiric tone, and dexterous use of traditional Acholi song and phraseology,
the poem inspired a generation of East African writers. ______ those who adopted its style are often referred to as Okot
School poets.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Nevertheless,

B. Fittingly,

C. By comparison,

D. Instead,

ID: 97e2e364 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Fittingly” is a transition that means “appropriately” or “suitably,” and it is appropriate that
writers who adopted their style from Okot p’Bitek would be known as the Okot School poets.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence is not disagreeing with anything—
rather, it’s discussing how it makes sense for those writers who adopted Okot’s style to be known as the Okot School
poets. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that compares two ideas. But this sentence is not comparing
the Okot School poets and their style to Okot’s style. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition.
But this sentence is not disagreeing with anything—rather, it’s discussing how it makes sense for those writers who
adopted Okot’s style to be known as the Okot School poets.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 01c8c433
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 01c8c433
Before the 1847 introduction of the US postage stamp, the cost of postage was usually paid by the recipient of a letter
rather than the sender, and recipients were not always able or willing to pay promptly. ______ collecting this fee could be
slow and arduous, and heaps of unpaid-for, undeliverable mail piled up in post offices.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Regardless,

B. On the contrary,

C. Consequently,

D. For example,

ID: 01c8c433 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Consequently” logically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence (slow
fee collection, heaps of undeliverable mail) were a consequence of the fee system described in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence
occurred despite the fee system described in the previous sentence. Instead, they were a consequence of that system.
Choice B is incorrect because “on the contrary” illogically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence
contrast with the fee system described in the previous sentence. Instead, they were a consequence of that system.
Choice D is incorrect because “for example” illogically signals that the postal problems described in this sentence are an
example of the fee system described in the previous sentence. Instead, they were a consequence of that system.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID db8fe023
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: db8fe023
A potter choosing which type of clay to use for a piece considers two key factors: the desired look of the piece and its
intended use. ______ earthenware clay is often used for decorative pieces because of its rustic look. This type of clay is
not often used in industrial settings, though, because it is less durable than other clays.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. Regardless,

C. In conclusion,

D. For example,

ID: db8fe023 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The previous sentence tells us that potters think about the look and use of a piece when
selecting clay. This sentence provides a specific example of a type of clay selected for its appearance, so the transition
"for example" fits perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea. But this sentence does
more than just restate the previous idea. Instead, it provides a more specific example of the idea presented in the first
sentence. Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the
previous sentence. Both sentences suggest that desired look plays a role in the selection of clay types for pottery pieces.
Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a concluding transition. But this sentence doesn’t sum up the previous sentence.
Instead, it gives a specific example of the idea presented in the previous sentence.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 04ad68ca
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 04ad68ca
In Gothic architecture, flying buttresses are large arches that help support a building’s exterior walls. Before the Gothic
era, cathedrals’ heavy ceilings had to be supported by thick, short walls, but the invention of flying buttresses eliminated
this need. ______ Gothic cathedrals could be built with thinner, higher walls.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. For instance,

C. Nevertheless,

D. As a result,

ID: 04ad68ca Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “As a result” logically signals that the thinner, higher walls in this sentence were a result of
the invention of flying buttresses in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the thinner, higher walls in this sentence are similar to the
invention of flying buttresses in the previous sentence. Instead, the walls were a result of that invention. Choice B is
incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that the thinner, higher walls in this sentence are an example
supporting the statement about the invention of flying buttresses in the previous sentence. Instead, the walls were a
result of that invention. Choice C is incorrect because “nevertheless” illogically signals that the thinner, higher walls in
this sentence occurred despite the invention of flying buttresses in the previous sentence. Instead, the walls were a result
of that invention.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID fc2bcc79
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: fc2bcc79
Tyrian purple was a highly prized dye among the Phoenicians (an ancient civilization located in present-day Lebanon).
The Phoenicians were famous for using this natural dye to color their clothes a distinctive purple. ______ the name
“Phoenicia” itself, some historians claim, may have originally meant “land of purple.”

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In fact,

B. Regardless,

C. Lastly,

D. On the contrary,

ID: fc2bcc79 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “In fact” logically signals that the claim in this sentence—Phoenicia being named after the
color purple—emphasizes and supports the previous claim that Phoenicians were famous for using purple dye.

Choice B is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the claim about Phoenicia’s name contrasts with the
previous claim that Phoenicians were famous for using purple dye. Instead, the naming emphasizes and supports this
claim. Choice C is incorrect because “lastly” illogically signals that the claim about Phoenicia’s name is the final step in a
process or sequence. Instead, the naming emphasizes and supports the previous claim that Phoenicians were famous
for using purple dye. Choice D is incorrect because “on the contrary” illogically signals that the claim about Phoenicia’s
name directly opposes the previous claim that Phoenicians were famous for using purple dye. Instead, the naming
emphasizes and supports this claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f735493e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: f735493e
Celebrated Tewa potter Maria Martinez (1887–1980) made her signature all-black ceramic vessels using a heating
technique called reduction firing. This technique involves smothering the flame surrounding the clay vessel. ______ the
vessel takes on a shiny, black hue.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. On the contrary,

B. For example,

C. Previously,

D. As a result,

ID: f735493e Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "As a result" logically signals that the information in this sentence—the vessel turning black
—is a result of the heating technique discussed in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because "on the contrary" illogically signals that the information in this sentence directly opposes
the heating technique in the previous sentence. Instead, the vessel turns black as a result of that technique. Choice B is
incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is an example of the heating
technique in the previous sentence. Instead, the vessel turns black as a result of that technique. Choice C is incorrect
because "previously" illogically signals that the information in this sentence occurs earlier in a chronological series of
events than does the heating technique discussed in the first two sentences. Instead, the vessel turns black as a result of
that technique.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 57bcd0d6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 57bcd0d6
Etched into Peru’s Nazca Desert are line drawings so large that they can only be fully seen from high above.
Archaeologists have known of the lines since the 1920s, when a researcher spotted some from a nearby foothill, and they
have been studying the markings ever since. ______ archaeologists’ efforts are aided by drones that capture high-
resolution aerial photographs of the lines.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Currently,

B. In comparison,

C. Still,

D. However,

ID: 57bcd0d6 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Currently” logically signals that the archaeologists’ use of drones (a current technology) to
photograph the lines is the present-day continuation of the ongoing archaeological research described in the previous
sentence.

Choice B is incorrect because “in comparison” illogically signals that the action described in this sentence offers a
comparison to the ongoing archaeological research described in the previous sentence. Instead, the use of drones is the
present-day continuation of that research. Choice C is incorrect because “still” illogically signals that the action described
in this sentence occurs despite the ongoing archaeological research described in the previous sentence. Instead, the use
of drones is the present-day continuation of that research. Choice D is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that
the action described in this sentence occurs either despite or in contrast to the ongoing archaeological research
described in the previous sentence. Instead, the use of drones is the present-day continuation of that research.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 11df9b99
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 11df9b99
Because an achiral molecule is symmetrical, flipping it yields a structurally identical molecule. A flipped chiral molecule,
______ can be compared to a glove that has been turned inside out: it produces a structurally inverted molecule rather
than an identical one.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in other words,

B. by contrast,

C. for example,

D. similarly,

ID: 11df9b99 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. This sentence compares a chiral molecule to an achiral one. It discusses how when a chiral
molecule is flipped, it results in something very different than when an achiral molecule is flipped. So the transition "by
contrast" fits the context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea in different words. But
this sentence doesn’t restate the same idea as the previous sentence. Instead, it makes a new point about a different
type of molecule (chiral instead of achiral). Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an
example, which doesn’t make sense here. The second sentence isn’t an example of the first sentence’s claim about
achiral molecules: it actually introduces an entirely different idea that focuses on chiral molecules. Choice D is incorrect.
This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. But this sentence shows a contrast with the
first sentence—namely, that a chiral molecule acts very differently from an achiral molecule when flipped.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 335bbe3e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 335bbe3e
In his painting At the Cycle-Race Track, Jean Metzinger aims to depict a bike race in four-dimensional space. Of course,
Metzinger’s painting doesn’t technically represent a fourth dimension; humans can only see in three dimensions. ______
by depicting the race through multiple, simultaneous perspectives, Metzinger offers a fascinating glimpse at what this
other universe might look like.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Moreover,

B. That said,

C. In other words,

D. For example,

ID: 335bbe3e Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "That said" logically signals that the statement in this sentence—that Metzinger offers a
glimpse of four-dimensional space by depicting multiple, simultaneous perspectives—is true despite the point in the
previous sentence (that Metzinger’s painting doesn’t technically represent a fourth dimension because humans can only
see in three dimensions).

Choice A is incorrect because "moreover" illogically signals that the information in this sentence merely adds to the
previous point about Metzinger’s painting. Instead, it provides information that is true despite that previous point. Choice
C is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a paraphrase or
restatement of the previous point about Metzinger’s painting. Instead, it provides information that is true despite that
previous point. Choice D is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that the information in this sentence
provides an example that supports the previous point about Metzinger’s painting. Instead, it provides information that is
true despite that previous point.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 827afb27
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 827afb27
Most conifers (trees belonging to the phylum Coniferophyta) are evergreen. That is, they keep their green leaves or
needles year-round. However, not all conifer species are evergreen. Larch trees, ______ lose their needles every fall.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. for instance,

B. nevertheless,

C. meanwhile,

D. in addition,

ID: 827afb27 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “For instance” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that larch trees lose
their needles every fall—is an example supporting the claim in the previous sentence (that not all conifer species keep
their leaves or needles year-round).

Choice B is incorrect because “nevertheless” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is true in spite of the
claim about conifer species in the previous sentence. Instead, it’s an example supporting that claim. Choice C is incorrect
because “meanwhile” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is separate from (while occurring
simultaneously with) the claim about conifer species in the previous sentence. Instead, it’s an example supporting that
claim. Choice D is incorrect because “in addition” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely an
additional fact related to the claim about conifer species in the previous sentence. Instead, it’s an example supporting
that claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 30438650
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 30438650
Jhumpa Lahiri’s story collection Interpreter of Maladies features multiple stories about romantic relationships. In “This
Blessed House,” newlyweds argue over whether to replace items left by the previous owners of their new home. ______ in
“A Temporary Matter,” a husband and wife attempt to rekindle their relationship during a four-night blackout.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Granted,

B. For example,

C. Likewise,

D. Hence,

ID: 30438650 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "Likewise" is a transition that indicates the addition of a new but related idea. In this
sentence, the author is providing another similar example to that discussed in the previous sentence. Therefore,
"likewise" works best in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that means "admittedly." But the text isn’t admitting or conceding
anything here. Instead, these two examples work together to support the claim made in the first sentence. Choice B is
incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The second story is not an
example of the story in the previous sentence—it’s another, similar story. And while both stories exemplify the first
sentence in the text, the transition we’re looking for isn’t actually connected to that sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This
choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The first story didn’t result in the events of the
second story.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID a773f069
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a773f069
Small, flat structures called spatulae are found at the tips of the hairs on a spider’s leg. These spatulae temporarily bond
with the atoms of whatever they touch. ______ spiders are able to cling to and climb almost any surface.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For instance,

B. However,

C. Similarly,

D. As a result,

ID: a773f069 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “As a result” logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that spiders can cling to and
climb almost any surface—is because of the previous information about the bonding properties of spiders’ spatulae.

Choice A is incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence exemplifies the information
in the previous sentences. Instead, the claim is because of the previous information about the bonding properties of
spiders’ spatulae. Choice B is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence contrasts
with the information in the previous sentences. Instead, the claim is because of the previous information about the
bonding properties of spiders’ spatulae. Choice C is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the claim in this
sentence is similar to, but separate from, the information in the previous sentences. Instead, the claim is because of the
previous information about the bonding properties of spiders’ spatulae.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 1b219d14
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1b219d14
As a young historian in the 1950s, Alixa Naff began interviewing fellow Arab American immigrants about their
experiences straddling two cultures. Over the next few decades, Naff conducted more than 450 such interviews, also
known as oral histories. ______ she collected photographs and other artifacts that represented her subjects’ experiences.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. On the contrary,

C. In addition,

D. Today,

ID: 1b219d14 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "In addition" logically signals that Naff’s artifact collecting was separate from, and in
addition to, her interviewing.

Choice A is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information about Naff’s artifact collecting
restates the previous information about her interviewing. Instead, Naff collected artifacts in addition to conducting
interviews. Choice B is incorrect because "on the contrary" illogically signals that Naff’s artifact collecting was contrary to
her interviewing. Instead, Naff collected artifacts in addition to conducting interviews. Choice D is incorrect because
"today" illogically signals that Naff’s artifact collecting is occurring in the present day. Instead, this activity occurred in the
past, as indicated by the past tense verb "collected."

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 6a5939c2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 6a5939c2
Paleontologists once thought that early apes lived in tropical forests, but recent research suggests that they may have
actually lived in savannas. Tropical forests are humid and have many trees spaced close together. ______ savannas are
drier, and their trees are spaced further apart.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For instance,

B. In comparison,

C. Firstly,

D. In conclusion,

ID: 6a5939c2 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "In comparison" logically signals that the description of savannas in this sentence—that they
are drier and their trees are spaced further apart—forms a comparison with the description of tropical forests in the
previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because "for instance" illogically signals that the description of savannas in this sentence
exemplifies the description of tropical forests in the previous sentence. Instead, this description forms a comparison with
the description of tropical forests. Choice C is incorrect because "firstly" illogically signals that the description of
savannas in this sentence indicates the first in a series of things. Instead, this description forms a comparison with the
description of tropical forests in the previous sentence. Choice D is incorrect because "in conclusion" illogically signals
that the description of savannas in this sentence concludes or summarizes information in the previous sentences.
Instead, this description forms a comparison with the description of tropical forests in the previous sentence.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID fd24f48f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: fd24f48f
Before California’s 1911 election to approve a proposition granting women the right to vote, activists across the state
sold tea to promote the cause of suffrage. In San Francisco, the Woman’s Suffrage Party sold Equality Tea at local fairs.
______ in Los Angeles, activist Nancy Tuttle Craig, who ran one of California’s largest grocery store firms, distributed
Votes for Women Tea.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. To conclude,

C. Similarly,

D. In other words,

ID: fd24f48f Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Similarly” logically signals that the activity described in this sentence (Nancy Tuttle Craig
distributing Votes for Women Tea in her Los Angeles grocery stores) is like the activity described in the previous
sentence (the Woman’s Suffrage Party selling Equality Tea at fairs in San Francisco). Together, the two examples support
the preceding claim that “activists across the state sold tea to promote the cause of suffrage.”

Choice A is incorrect because “for example” illogically signals that the activity described in this sentence exemplifies the
activity described in the previous sentence. Instead, the two activities are similar, and both support the preceding claim
about selling tea to promote women’s right to vote. Choice B is incorrect because “to conclude” illogically signals that the
activity described in this sentence concludes or summarizes the information in the previous sentences. Instead, the
activity is similar to the one described in the previous sentence, and both support the preceding claim about selling tea to
promote women’s right to vote. Choice D is incorrect because “in other words” illogically signals that the activity
described in this sentence paraphrases the activity described in the previous sentence. Instead, the two activities are
similar, and both support the preceding claim about selling tea to promote women’s right to vote.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 1a8126aa
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1a8126aa
In 2019, researcher Patricia Jurado Gonzalez and food historian Nawal Nasrallah prepared a stew from a 4,000-year-old
recipe found on a Mesopotamian clay tablet. When they tasted the dish, known as pašrūtum (“unwinding”), they found
that it had a mild taste and inspired a sense of calm. ______ the researchers, knowing that dishes were sometimes named
after their intended effects, theorized that the dish’s name, “unwinding,” referred to its function: to help ancient diners
relax.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Therefore,

B. Alternately,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Likewise,

ID: 1a8126aa Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "Therefore" logically signals that the action described in this sentence—the researchers
theorizing that the dish was named for its effect on diners—is a result or consequence of the previous observation that
the dish had a calming effect.

Choice B is incorrect because "alternately" illogically signals that the action described in this sentence offers an
alternative or contrast to the previous observation that the dish had a calming effect. Instead, the action is a result or
consequence of that observation. Choice C is incorrect because "nevertheless" illogically signals that the action
described in this sentence occurs despite the previous observation that the dish had a calming effect. Instead, the action
is a result or consequence of that observation. Choice D is incorrect because "likewise" illogically signals that this
sentence merely adds a second, similar detail to the previous observation that the dish had a calming effect. Instead, this
sentence describes an action that is a result or consequence of that observation.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 42301836
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 42301836
In her 2012 analysis of tree rings from Japan’s Yaku Island, cosmic ray physicist Fusa Miyake noted an anomalous
carbon-14 spike dating to 774–775 CE, indicating that a massive burst of radiation reached Earth during that time. ______
this unprecedented radiocarbon surge was dubbed a “Miyake event” in honor of its discoverer.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Fittingly,

B. Similarly,

C. However,

D. In other words,

ID: 42301836 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "Fittingly" logically signals that the naming of an unprecedented radiocarbon surge for Fusa
Miyake is appropriate to the situation, since Miyake is the person who identified the surge (through her Yaku Island tree-
ring analysis).

Choice B is incorrect because "similarly" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is similar to the previous
information about Miyake’s identification of a massive radiation burst through tree-ring analysis. Instead, the naming of
the event for its discoverer is a fitting and appropriate outcome. Choice C is incorrect because "however" illogically
signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the previous information about Miyake’s identification of a
massive radiation burst through tree-ring analysis. Instead, the naming of the event for its discoverer is a fitting and
appropriate outcome. Choice D is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information in this
sentence is a paraphrase or restatement of the previous information about Miyake’s identification of a massive radiation
burst through tree-ring analysis. Instead, the naming of the event for its discoverer is a fitting and appropriate outcome.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 0d3ebdce
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0d3ebdce
Neuroscientist Karen Konkoly wanted to determine whether individuals can understand and respond to questions during
REM sleep. She first taught volunteers eye movements they would use to respond to basic math problems while asleep
(a single left-right eye movement indicated the number one). ______ she attached electrodes to the volunteers’ faces to
record their eye movements during sleep.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Specifically,

B. Next,

C. For instance,

D. In sum,

ID: 0d3ebdce Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Next” logically signals that the action described in this sentence—Konkoly recording
participants’ eye movements—is the next step in Konkoly’s experiment.

Choice A is incorrect because “specifically” illogically signals that this sentence specifies or elaborates on an aspect of
the action described in the previous sentence. Instead, it describes the next step in Konkoly’s experiment. Choice C is
incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that the action described in this sentence is an example of the action
described in the previous sentence. Instead, it is the next step in Konkoly’s experiment. Choice D is incorrect because “in
sum” illogically signals that this sentence summarizes or concludes the action described in the previous sentence.
Instead, it describes the next step in Konkoly’s experiment.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 8112b7e3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 8112b7e3
Ugandan American professor Peter Nazareth believed that Elvis Presley’s music is best understood not as a
homogeneous collection but as an anthology (because Elvis showcased the contributions of a wide range of gospel,
blues, and rock artists). ______ Nazareth entitled his college course on Elvis and his music, which focused on Elvis’s many
musical influences, “Elvis as Anthology.”

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. To that end,

B. In sum,

C. That is,

D. In addition,

ID: 8112b7e3 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "To that end" logically signals that the activity described in this sentence—Nazareth titling
his course "Elvis as Anthology"—is meant to further Nazareth’s goal of helping others understand Presley’s music as an
anthology with a wide range of influences.

Choice B is incorrect. "In sum" illogically signals that the activity described in this sentence summarizes Nazareth’s view
of Presley’s music as an anthology. Instead, titling his course "Elvis as Anthology" is a way for him to promote this view.
Choice C is incorrect. "That is" illogically signals that the activity described in this sentence is a clarification or
interpretation of Nazareth’s view of Presley’s music as an anthology. Instead, titling his course "Elvis as Anthology" is a
way for him to promote this view. Choice D is incorrect. "In addition" illogically signals that the activity described in this
sentence is merely an additional fact about Nazareth. Instead, titling his course "Elvis as Anthology" is a way for him to
promote his view of Presley’s music as an anthology.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 25361ec6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 25361ec6
Scientists long debated the origins of chondrules, tiny glass beads that formed in meteors billions of years ago. For
decades, different theories were proposed, from lightning strikes to powerful rock collisions, but none had sufficient
evidentiary support. ______ scientists found strong evidence that chondrules were formed by shock waves in nearby
nebulae.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. Therefore,

C. Similarly,

D. Finally,

ID: 25361ec6 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Finally" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that scientists found
evidence that chondrules were formed by shock waves in nearby nebulae—indicates a conclusion to the scientific debate
mentioned in the previous sentences.

Choice A is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that the information about the evidence for chondrule
formation in this sentence exemplifies the information about the scientific debate regarding chondrule formation in the
previous sentences. Instead, it indicates a conclusion to the debate. Choice B is incorrect because "therefore" illogically
signals that the information in this sentence is a result of the previous information about the scientific debate regarding
chondrule formation. Instead, it indicates a conclusion to the debate. Choice C is incorrect because "similarly" illogically
signals that the information that follows is similar to the information about the scientific debate regarding chondrule
formation in the previous sentences. Instead, it indicates a conclusion to the debate.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 47547d07
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 47547d07
In June, female loggerhead sea turtles will swim back to the sandy beaches where they were born to lay eggs of their
own. First, the turtle will dig her nest in the sand. ______ she will lay up to 100 eggs in the nest. Finally, she will cover it all
with sand, before returning to the ocean.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. By contrast,

B. Similarly,

C. Next,

D. For example,

ID: 47547d07 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Next” logically signals that the egg laying in this sentence is the next step in the sequence
of events described in the other sentences.

Choice A is incorrect because “by contrast” illogically signals that the egg laying in this sentence contrasts with the nest
digging in the previous sentence. Instead, the egg laying follows the nest digging as the next step in the sequence of
events. Choice B is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the egg laying in this sentence is similar to the
nest digging in the previous sentence. Though the two actions are related, they are not similar. Instead, the egg laying
follows the nest digging as the next step in the sequence of events. Choice D is incorrect because “for example”
illogically signals that the egg laying in this sentence is an example of the nest digging in the previous sentence. Instead,
the egg laying follows the nest digging as the next step in the sequence of events.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 8e9677e6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 8e9677e6
In 2009, the Craft and Folk Art Museum in Los Angeles hosted a special exhibition, Sueños/Yume, showcasing the works
of local sculptor Dora de Larios. As suggested by the show’s title (sueños and yume mean “dreams” in Spanish and
Japanese, respectively), de Larios’s art reflects a mix of cultural influences. ______ her work is grounded in the artistic
traditions of both Mexico and Japan.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In addition,

B. In contrast,

C. Specifically,

D. Therefore,

ID: 8e9677e6 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Specifically” logically signals that this sentence provides specific, precise details
elaborating on the previous sentence’s claim that de Larios’s art reflects a mix of cultures. This sentence specifies which
cultures the previous sentence is referring to: the artistic traditions of both Mexico and Japan.

Choice A is incorrect because “in addition” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a separate point that
follows the previous claim about de Larios’s art. Instead, it provides specific details elaborating on that claim. Choice B is
incorrect because “in contrast” illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the previous claim
about de Larios’s art. Instead, it provides specific details elaborating on that claim. Choice D is incorrect because
“therefore” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a result of the previous claim about de Larios’s art.
Instead, it provides specific details elaborating on that claim.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4b7a84b0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4b7a84b0
Mountain climbing routes that incorporate metal rungs and cables are known as via ferratas, from the Italian phrase for
“iron path.” As climbing these routes has shifted from a mode of travel to a sporting activity, modern via ferratas are
rarely designed to simply reach a summit. ______ new routes favor recreation over utility, aiming to provide a challenging
climb or showcase dramatic scenery.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Additionally,

B. On the other hand,

C. More often,

D. Nonetheless,

ID: 4b7a84b0 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "More often" logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that new via ferratas favor
recreation over utility—explains a difference between the new "sporting activity" routes and the older "mode of travel"
routes. In so doing, it emphasizes and reinforces the previous claim ("modern via ferratas are rarely designed to simply
reach a summit").

Choice A is incorrect because "additionally" illogically signals that this sentence’s claim about new via ferratas adds a
new, separate point to the previous claim ("modern via ferratas are rarely designed to simply reach a summit"). Instead,
the second claim—that new routes favor recreation over utility—emphasizes and reinforces the previous one. Choice B is
incorrect because "on the other hand" illogically signals that this sentence’s claim about new via ferratas contrasts with
or opposes the previous claim ("modern via ferratas are rarely designed to simply reach a summit"). Instead, the second
claim—that new routes favor recreation over utility—emphasizes and reinforces the previous one. Choice D is incorrect
because "nonetheless" illogically signals that this sentence’s claim about new via ferratas is true despite the previous
claim ("modern via ferratas are rarely designed to simply reach a summit"). Instead, the second claim—that new routes
favor recreation over utility—emphasizes and reinforces the previous one.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6e0c60da
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 6e0c60da
When one looks at the dark craggy vistas in Hitoshi Fugo’s evocative photo series, one’s mind might wander off to the
cratered surfaces of faraway planets. ______ it’s the series’ title, Flying Frying Pan, that brings one back to Earth,
reminding the viewer that each photo is actually a close-up view of a familiar household object: a frying pan.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Consequently,

B. Alternatively,

C. Ultimately,

D. Additionally,

ID: 6e0c60da Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The first sentence describes an experience that the viewer has when they’re looking at the
photos: they imagine other planets. This sentence describes an experience that the viewer has afterward: the title
reminds them that the photos are of frying pans, bringing them back to reality. “Ultimately” is a transition that means
“eventually” or “in the end,” so it fits the context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The viewer
imagining other planets when they’re looking at the photos doesn’t cause the title to bring them back to reality. Choice B
is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates another option or possibility, which doesn’t make sense here.
Rather, the viewer has both experiences: first the viewer imagines that they’re looking at another planet, and then the title
reminds them that it’s just a frying pan. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of
an agreeing idea. But the viewer’s experience in the second sentence is actually the opposite of the viewer’s experience
in the first sentence. In the first sentence, the viewer is imagining that they’re seeing a landscape from another planet. In
the second sentence, the viewer is reminded that they’re looking at a frying pan.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7f20374f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 7f20374f
The 435 state districts in the US House of Representatives are designed to be roughly equal in population. These districts
average around 760,000 people in size. However, only about 730,000 people live in the state of Alaska. ______ Alaska has
just one House district, encompassing the entire state.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. Instead,

C. Finally,

D. For instance,

ID: 7f20374f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "As a result" logically signals that the information in the sentence—that, in the US House of
Representatives, the entire state of Alaska has just one district—is the result or consequence of Alaska having only about
730,000 people. This is slightly below the average for House districts, which are designed to have roughly equal
populations.

Choice B is incorrect because "instead" illogically signals that Alaska having just one state district is an alternative to the
information about the state’s population in the previous sentence. Rather, the fact that Alaska has just one district is a
result or consequence of the entire state having slightly fewer people than an average-sized district. Choice C is incorrect
because "finally" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about Alaska having just one district indicates a
last step in a process or a concluding summary. Instead, the fact that Alaska has just one district is a result or
consequence of the entire state having slightly fewer people than an average-sized district. Choice D is incorrect because
"for instance" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about Alaska having just one district exemplifies the
information about the state’s population in the previous sentence. Instead, the fact that Alaska has just one district is a
result or consequence of the entire state having slightly fewer people than an average-sized district.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 9d4f331c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9d4f331c
When sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi was designing the Statue of Liberty, he sought the advice of engineer Gustave
Eiffel. Eiffel suggested that he make the statue’s arm thick and position it straight above the figure’s head. ______
Bartholdi decided to slim the arm and tilt it out at an angle.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Additionally,

B. Instead,

C. Thus,

D. For example,

ID: 9d4f331c Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Instead" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Bartholdi decided to
slim and tilt out the arm of the Statue of Liberty—contrasts with Eiffel’s design suggestions for the statue.

Choice A is incorrect because "additionally" illogically suggests that the information in this sentence is merely an
additional fact related to Eiffel’s design suggestions in the previous sentence. Instead, it contrasts with those
suggestions. Choice C is incorrect because "thus" illogically signals that the information that follows is a result of Eiffel’s
design suggestions in the previous sentence. Instead, it contrasts with those suggestions. Choice D is incorrect because
"for example" illogically signals that the information about Bartholdi’s design decisions in this sentence exemplifies
Eiffel’s design suggestions in the previous sentence. Instead, it contrasts with those suggestions.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 29ae4d48
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 29ae4d48
In the early 1970s, Albert Popa took up graffiti art, spraying his work onto what was at the time an unconventional
surface: concrete. ______ Albert’s son David has chosen an unusual canvas for his new art project, Fractured. In this
remarkable work, the artist draws charcoal faces onto fragmented ice floes in Finland, creating the visual effect of a face
slowly fracturing.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. Indeed,

C. Second,

D. Likewise,

ID: 29ae4d48 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Likewise" logically signals that the information about Albert’s son David is similar to the
previous information about Albert Popa. Both artists have used unconventional surfaces for their work: Albert used
concrete, and David is using ice floes.

Choice A is incorrect because "however" illogically signals that the information about David contrasts with the previous
information about Albert Popa. Instead, it is similar to the previous information about Albert Popa. Choice B is incorrect
because "indeed" illogically signals that the information about David emphasizes or strengthens the previous point about
Albert Popa. Instead, it is similar to the previous information; it highlights a similarity between father and son. Choice C is
incorrect because "second" illogically signals that the information about David is a second point or reason separate from
the previous information about Albert Popa. Instead, it is similar to the previous information; it highlights a similarity
between father and son.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 9dc4e640
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9dc4e640
The mineral mtorolite is most commonly found in Zimbabwe. Mtorolite is cryptocrystalline, meaning that its crystalline
structure is so fine that the individual crystals cannot be distinguished by the naked eye or even under a microscope. The
crystals in microcrystalline minerals are also not visible to the naked eye; ______ they can usually be seen under a
microscope.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. thus,

B. for example,

C. that said,

D. similarly,

ID: 9dc4e640 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer because "that said" logically signals that the information that follows—that the crystals of
microcrystalline minerals can be seen with a microscope—is an exception to the previous information about the
crystalline structure of minerals not being visible under a microscope.

Choice A is incorrect because "thus" illogically signals that the information that follows is a direct result or consequence
of the fact that the crystals of microcrystalline minerals aren’t visible to the naked eye. Instead, the fact that they can be
seen under a microscope is an exception to the previous information about crystalline minerals. Choice B is incorrect
because "for example" illogically signals that the information that follows exemplifies the fact that the crystals of
microcrystalline minerals aren’t visible to the naked eye. Instead, the fact that they can be seen under a microscope is an
exception to the previous information about crystalline minerals. Choice D is incorrect because "similarly" illogically
signals that the information that follows is similar or comparable to the fact that the crystals of microcrystalline minerals
aren’t visible to the naked eye. Instead, the fact that they can be seen under a microscope is an exception to the previous
information about crystalline minerals.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6081831f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 6081831f
When Chinese director Chloé Zhao accepted the Oscar in 2021 for her film Nomadland, she made Academy Award
history. ______ only one other woman, Kathryn Bigelow of the United States, had been named best director at the Oscars,
making Zhao the second woman and the first Asian woman to win the award.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. Previously,

C. However,

D. Likewise,

ID: 6081831f Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Previously” logically signals that the event described in this sentence—Bigelow being
named best director—occurred before Zhao’s win. The fact that only one other woman had won the award before puts
Zhao’s win in perspective.

Choice A is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals that the event described in this sentence occurred as a
result or consequence of Zhao’s win. Instead, it occurred before Zhao was named best director and puts Zhao’s win in
perspective. Choice C is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the event described in this sentence
occurred in spite of or in contrast to Zhao’s win. Instead, it occurred before Zhao was named best director and puts
Zhao’s win in perspective. Choice D is incorrect because “likewise” illogically signals that this sentence merely adds a
second, similar piece of information to the information about Zhao’s win. Instead, the fact that only one other woman had
won the award before puts Zhao’s win in perspective.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 0c0d50e1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0c0d50e1
The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project is anticipated to generate 2.6 gigawatts of energy, enough to power almost
one million homes. As its name indicates, the project—currently in development—consists of wind turbines located off
the Virginia coast. ______ the project plan calls for 176 large turbines to be placed at a site 27 miles east of Virginia
Beach.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. To be exact,

B. In conclusion,

C. As a result,

D. In contrast,

ID: 0c0d50e1 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "To be exact" logically signals that this sentence about the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind
project plan provides specific, precise details—number of turbines, location of site—elaborating on the more general
information about the project in the previous sentence.

Choice B is incorrect because "in conclusion" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the Coastal
Virginia Offshore Wind project plan concludes or summarizes the discussion of the project in the previous sentences.
Instead, the sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on the previous information. Choice C is incorrect
because "as a result" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind
project plan is caused by, or occurs as a result of, the information about the project in the previous sentence. Instead, the
sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on the previous information. Choice D is incorrect because "in
contrast" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project plan
contrasts with information about the project in the previous sentence. Instead, the sentence provides specific, precise
details elaborating on the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 0c0d50e1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0c0d50e1
The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project is anticipated to generate 2.6 gigawatts of energy, enough to power almost
one million homes. As its name indicates, the project—currently in development—consists of wind turbines located off
the Virginia coast. ______ the project plan calls for 176 large turbines to be placed at a site 27 miles east of Virginia
Beach.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. To be exact,

B. In conclusion,

C. As a result,

D. In contrast,

ID: 0c0d50e1 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "To be exact" logically signals that this sentence about the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind
project plan provides specific, precise details—number of turbines, location of site—elaborating on the more general
information about the project in the previous sentence.

Choice B is incorrect because "in conclusion" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the Coastal
Virginia Offshore Wind project plan concludes or summarizes the discussion of the project in the previous sentences.
Instead, the sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on the previous information. Choice C is incorrect
because "as a result" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind
project plan is caused by, or occurs as a result of, the information about the project in the previous sentence. Instead, the
sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on the previous information. Choice D is incorrect because "in
contrast" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project plan
contrasts with information about the project in the previous sentence. Instead, the sentence provides specific, precise
details elaborating on the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 20e4ff59
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 20e4ff59
Famous for its four-degree tilt, the leaning Garisenda Tower is a popular attraction in Bologna’s city center. However,
measurements taken in 2023 showed that the tower was rotating in a concerning way. ______ city officials closed the
area around the tower so experts could explore solutions to stabilize the historical twelfth-century structure.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. As a result,

C. For example,

D. In comparison,

ID: 20e4ff59 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "As a result" logically signals that the action described in this sentence—closing the area
around Garisenda Tower to explore stabilization solutions—occurred as a consequence or result of measurements
revealing the tower’s concerning rotation.

Choice A is incorrect because "similarly" illogically signals that the action of closing the tower area is similar to the
discovery of concerning rotation described in the previous sentence. Instead, closing the area around the tower to
explore solutions occurred as a result of the measurements revealing the rotation. Choice C is incorrect because "for
example" illogically signals that the action of closing the tower area serves as an example of the tower’s concerning
rotation described in the previous sentence. Instead, closing the area around the tower to explore solutions occurred as a
result of the measurements revealing the rotation. Choice D is incorrect because "in comparison" illogically signals that
the action of closing the tower area is being compared to the discovery of concerning rotation described in the previous
sentence. Instead, closing the area around the tower to explore solutions occurred as a result of the measurements
revealing the rotation.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 129089b5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 129089b5
In 1933, the Twentieth Amendment to the US Constitution was ratified. The amendment mandates that presidential
inaugurations be held on January 20, approximately ten weeks after the November election. ______ this amendment
requires newly elected US senators and representatives to be sworn into their respective offices on January 3.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Instead,

B. For instance,

C. Specifically,

D. In addition,

ID: 129089b5 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “In addition” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the Twentieth
Amendment requires newly elected US senators and representatives to be sworn in on January 3—is separate from and
additional to the amendment’s mandate concerning presidential inaugurations.

Choice A is incorrect because “instead” illogically signals that the information in the sentence presents an alternative to
or substitute for the Twentieth Amendment’s mandate concerning presidential inaugurations. Rather, the sentence
presents a separate requirement in addition to that one. Choice B is incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals
that the information in the sentence exemplifies the Twentieth Amendment’s mandate concerning presidential
inaugurations. Instead, the sentence presents a separate requirement in addition to that one. Choice C is incorrect
because “specifically” illogically signals that the sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on the Twentieth
Amendment’s mandate concerning presidential inaugurations. Instead, the sentence presents a separate requirement in
addition to that one.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID ddb77846
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ddb77846
My interest in old public libraries has led me to seek them out whenever I visit a new part of the United States. ______ I
could visit every state in the US and still not find the oldest public library in the Western Hemisphere. That library, the
Biblioteca Palafoxiana, is located in Puebla, Mexico.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. Nevertheless,

C. Earlier,

D. In other words,

ID: ddb77846 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Nevertheless" logically signals that the claim in the sentence—that the speaker could visit
every state in the US and not find the oldest public library in the Western Hemisphere—is true despite the previous claim
about the speaker seeking out old public libraries.

Choice A is incorrect because "as a result" illogically signals that the claim in the sentence is a consequence of the
previous claim about the speaker seeking out old public libraries. Instead, the claim is true despite the previous claim.
Choice C is incorrect because "earlier" illogically signals that the claim in the sentence occurs earlier in a chronological
sequence of events than the previous claim about the speaker seeking out old public libraries. Instead, the claim is true
despite the previous claim. Choice D is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the claim in the
sentence is merely a paraphrase or restatement of the previous claim about the speaker seeking out old public libraries.
Instead, the claim is true despite the previous claim.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 9fe7315b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9fe7315b
Few New Yorkers have heard Thelma Pollard’s name. ______ many have seen her work in the famous Broadway musical
The Phantom of the Opera. As the musical’s longtime makeup supervisor, Pollard put the iconic makeup on the face of
the Phantom himself.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. Therefore,

C. For example,

D. However,

ID: 9fe7315b Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "However" logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that many New Yorkers have
seen Pollard’s work in a famous Broadway musical—is true despite the previous information that few New Yorkers have
heard Pollard’s name.

Choice A is incorrect because "similarly" illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is similar to the previous
information that few New Yorkers have heard Pollard’s name. Instead, the claim that many New Yorkers have seen
Pollard’s work is true despite the previous information. Choice B is incorrect because "therefore" illogically signals that
the claim in this sentence is a result of the previous information that few New Yorkers have heard Pollard’s name.
Instead, the claim that many New Yorkers have seen Pollard’s work is true despite the previous information. Choice C is
incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that the claim in this sentence exemplifies the previous information
that few New Yorkers have heard Pollard’s name. Instead, the claim that many New Yorkers have seen Pollard’s work is
true despite the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 911c7a87
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 911c7a87
After appropriate permissions are granted, a typical archaeological dig begins with a surveyor making a detailed grid of
the excavation site. Then, the site is carefully dug, and any artifacts found are recorded and mapped onto the site grid.
______ the artifacts are removed, cataloged, and analyzed in a laboratory.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For instance,

B. On the contrary,

C. Earlier,

D. Finally,

ID: 911c7a87 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Finally" logically signals that the actions in this sentence—the removal, cataloging, and
analysis of artifacts—are the next and final steps in a process, following the previous actions of surveying, digging,
recording, and mapping.

Choice A is incorrect because "for instance" illogically signals that the actions in this sentence are an example of the
actions in the previous sentence. Instead, the removal, cataloging, and analysis of artifacts are the next and final steps in
a process. Choice B is incorrect because "on the contrary" illogically signals that the actions in this sentence are directly
opposed to the actions in the previous sentence. Instead, the removal, cataloging, and analysis of artifacts are the next
and final steps in a process. Choice C is incorrect because "earlier" illogically signals that the actions in this sentence
occur before the actions in the previous sentence. Instead, the removal, cataloging, and analysis of artifacts are the next
and final steps in a process.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 9502ec65
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9502ec65
When soil becomes contaminated by toxic metals, it can be removed from the ground and disposed of in a landfill. ______
contaminated soil can be detoxified via phytoremediation: plants that can withstand high concentrations of metals
absorb the pollutants and store them in their shoots, which are then cut off and safely disposed of, preserving the health
of the plants.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Alternatively,

B. Specifically,

C. For example,

D. As a result,

ID: 9502ec65 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Alternatively” logically signals that the soil decontamination method described in this
sentence—removing toxic metals from the soil via phytoremediation—offers an alternative to the previously described
method (removing the contaminated soil from the ground).

Choice B is incorrect because “specifically” illogically signals that the soil decontamination method described in this
sentence specifies or elaborates on an aspect of the previously described method (removing the contaminated soil from
the ground). Instead, phytoremediation is an alternative to that method. Choice C is incorrect because “for example”
illogically signals that the soil decontamination method described in this sentence is an example of the previously
described method (removing the contaminated soil from the ground). Instead, phytoremediation is an alternative to that
method. Choice D is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals that the soil decontamination method described in
this sentence is a result or consequence of the previously described method (removing the contaminated soil from the
ground). Instead, phytoremediation is an alternative to that method.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2df7b582
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2df7b582
Plato believed material objects to be crude representations of unseen ideal forms. In his view, such abstract, nonmaterial
forms are the ultimate source of knowledge. Aristotle disagreed, positing that knowledge is best obtained through direct
engagement with the material world; ______ sensory experience of the material is the ultimate source of knowledge.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. regardless,

B. admittedly,

C. in other words,

D. meanwhile,

ID: 2df7b582 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “In other words” logically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows—that
sensory experience is the source of knowledge—is a restatement of Aristotle’s theory from earlier in the sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows is true
in spite of Aristotle’s theory from earlier in the sentence. Instead, this claim is a restatement of his theory. Choice B is
incorrect because “admittedly” illogically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows is an exception to
Aristotle’s theory from earlier in the sentence. Instead, this claim is a restatement of his theory. Choice D is incorrect
because “meanwhile” illogically signals that the claim about sensory experience that follows is separate from (while
occurring simultaneously with) Aristotle’s theory from earlier in the sentence. Instead, this claim is a restatement of his
theory.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 42870a4e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 42870a4e
Marcel Duchamp intended his 1917 so-called ready-made sculpture Fountain to challenge then-prevailing conceptions
about the nature of art. ______ Duchamp’s Fountain did just that, raising the question of whether displaying any object in
an art gallery could be said to transform the object—even, as Duchamp’s sculpture was, a urinal—into a legitimate work of
art.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. Indeed,

C. Instead,

D. In addition,

ID: 42870a4e Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Indeed" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the sculpture raised the
question of whether displaying any object in an art gallery transforms the object into a work of art—offers emphasis in
support of the claim in the previous sentence that the sculpture was intended to challenge conceptions about the nature
of art.

Choice A is incorrect because "similarly" illogically signals that information in this sentence is similar to the claim about
the sculptor’s intention in the previous sentence. Instead, the information about the question raised by the sculpture
offers emphasis in support of that claim. Choice C is incorrect because "instead" illogically signals that the information in
this sentence is an alternative to the claim about the sculptor’s intention in the previous sentence. Rather, the information
about the question raised by the sculpture offers emphasis in support of that claim. Choice D is incorrect because "in
addition" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely an additional fact related to the claim about the
sculptor’s intention in the previous sentence. Instead, the information about the question raised by the sculpture offers
emphasis in support of that claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID c7e85c0a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: c7e85c0a
The envelope-shaped paper bags common in the US 150 years ago were impractical for carrying goods. ______ because
they were the only paper bags that could be mass-produced, these bags dominated the market. That all changed in the
1870s, when industrial designer Margaret Knight patented a machine to make flat-bottomed, foldable paper bags.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. For instance,

C. Thus,

D. In other words,

ID: c7e85c0a Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “However” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that envelope-shaped
bags dominated the market—contrasts with the previous claim that these bags were impractical for carrying goods.

Choice B is incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is an example
supporting the previous claim that envelope-shaped bags were impractical for carrying goods. Instead, the sentence
contrasts with the previous claim about the bags. Choice C is incorrect because “thus” illogically signals that the
information in this sentence is a result of the previous claim that envelope-shaped bags were impractical for carrying
goods. Instead, the sentence contrasts with the previous claim about the bags. Choice D is incorrect because “in other
words” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a paraphrase of the previous claim that envelope-shaped
bags were impractical for carrying goods. Instead, the sentence contrasts with the previous claim about the bags.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f33f0892
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: f33f0892
Although novels and poems are considered distinct literary forms, many authors have created hybrid works that
incorporate elements of both. Bernardine Evaristo’s The Emperor’s Babe, ______ is a verse novel, a book-length narrative
complete with characters and a plot but conveyed in short, crisp lines of poetry rather than prose.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. by contrast,

B. consequently,

C. secondly,

D. for example,

ID: f33f0892 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “For example” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that The Emperor’s
Babe is a novel conveyed in lines of poetry—exemplifies the claim in the previous sentence about hybrid works that
incorporate elements of both novels and poems.

Choice A is incorrect because “by contrast” illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the
claim about hybrid works in the previous sentence. Instead, the information demonstrates that Evaristo’s novel is an
example of a hybrid work. Choice B is incorrect because “consequently” illogically signals that the information in this
sentence is a consequence, or result, of the claim about hybrid works in the previous sentence. Instead, the information
demonstrates that Evaristo’s novel is an example of a hybrid work. Choice C is incorrect because “secondly” illogically
signals that the information in this sentence is a second, separate claim from the previous sentence’s claim about hybrid
works. Instead, the information demonstrates that Evaristo’s novel is an example of a hybrid work.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 7d56630a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 7d56630a
In studying whether jellyfish sleep, researchers Michael Abrams, Claire Bedbrook, and Ravi Nath attempted to answer
three questions. ______ is there a period each day when the pulse rates of jellyfish decline? Second, do jellyfish respond
more slowly to stimuli during that period? Finally, if prevented from sleeping, are jellyfish adversely affected?

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. First,

C. Additionally,

D. However,

ID: 7d56630a Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “First” logically signals that the question in this sentence—whether there is a daily period
during which jellyfish pulse rates decline—is the first in a sequence of three questions the researchers attempted to
answer about jellyfish sleep behavior.

Choice A is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals that the question in this sentence is a result of the three
questions the researchers attempted to answer. Instead, it is the first of those three questions. Choice C is incorrect
because “additionally” illogically signals that the question in this sentence is an additional question related to the three
questions the researchers attempted to answer. Instead, it is the first of those three questions. Choice D is incorrect
because “however” illogically signals that the question in this sentence contrasts with the three questions the
researchers attempted to answer. Instead, it is the first of those three questions.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID a6155e60
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a6155e60
Every chemical compound has a spectroscopic fingerprint, a pattern of reflected light unique to that compound. ______
upon analyzing the light reflected by the bright regions on the surface of the dwarf planet Ceres, Maria Cristina De
Sanctis of Rome’s National Institute of Astrophysics was able to determine that the regions contain large amounts of the
compound sodium carbonate.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Regardless,

B. Meanwhile,

C. Thus,

D. In comparison,

ID: a6155e60 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Thus” logically signals that the action described in this sentence—the researcher being able
to determine the chemical makeup of the planet’s bright regions based on how they reflect light—is a result or
consequence of the previous information about spectroscopic fingerprints.

Choice A is incorrect because “regardless” illogically signals that the action described in this sentence occurs despite the
previous information about spectroscopic fingerprints. Instead, the finding in this sentence is a result or consequence of
that information. Choice B is incorrect because “meanwhile” illogically signals that the action described in this sentence
either occurs at the same time as or offers an alternative to the previous information about spectroscopic fingerprints.
Instead, the finding in this sentence is a result or consequence of that information. Choice D is incorrect because “in
comparison” illogically signals that the action described in this sentence is being compared with the previous information
about spectroscopic fingerprints. Instead, the finding in this sentence is a result or consequence of that information.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID e1b00a70
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: e1b00a70
The more diverse and wide ranging an animal’s behaviors, the larger and more energy demanding the animal’s brain
tends to be. ______ from an evolutionary perspective, animals that perform only basic actions should allocate fewer
resources to growing and maintaining brain tissue. The specialized subtypes of ants within colonies provide an
opportunity to explore this hypothesis.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Subsequently,

B. Besides,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Thus,

ID: e1b00a70 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Thus” logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that animals performing only basic
actions should allocate relatively few resources to their brain tissue—is a consequence of the previous sentence’s claim
about the energy demands of animal brains (namely, that the more diverse an animal’s behaviors, the more energy its
brain needs).

Choice A is incorrect because “subsequently” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence occurs later in a
chronological sequence of events than the previous sentence’s claim about the energy demands of animal brains.
Instead, the second claim is a consequence of the first. Choice B is incorrect because “besides” illogically signals that
the claim in this sentence provides a separate point in addition to, or apart from, the previous sentence’s claim about the
energy demands of animal brains. Instead, the second claim is a consequence of the first. Choice C is incorrect because
“nevertheless” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is true in spite of the previous sentence’s claim about the
energy demands of animal brains. Instead, the second claim is a consequence of the first.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 08be6347
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 08be6347
In his 1925 book The Morphology of Landscape, US geographer Carl Sauer challenged prevailing views about how
natural landscapes influence human cultures. ______ Sauer argued that instead of being shaped entirely by their natural
surroundings, cultures play an active role in their own development by virtue of their interactions with the environment.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. Finally,

C. Therefore,

D. Specifically,

ID: 08be6347 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Specifically” logically signals that the information in this sentence about Sauer’s argument
—that, according to Sauer, cultures play a role in their own development, as opposed to being shaped solely by natural
surroundings—provides specific, precise details elaborating on the more general information in the previous sentence
about how Sauer challenged prevailing views about how natural landscapes influence human cultures.

Choice A is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the information in this sentence about Sauer’s argument
is similar to, but separate from, the more general information in the previous sentence. Instead, it provides specific,
precise details elaborating on that information. Choice B is incorrect because “finally” illogically signals that the
information in this sentence about Sauer’s argument indicates a last step in a process or a concluding summary. Instead,
it provides specific, precise details elaborating on the general information in the previous sentence. Choice C is incorrect
because “therefore” illogically signals that the information in this sentence about Sauer’s argument is a result of the more
general information in the previous sentence. Instead, it provides specific, precise details elaborating on that information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 3a715eca
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 3a715eca
In retrospect, one of the lessons of the 2003 Human Genome Project is that a gene is affected by many factors, not the
least of which is its interactions with the protein products of other genes. ______ rather than just focusing on the human
genome, efforts to better understand gene mutations related to disease have begun to consider the human proteome,
the complete set of proteins expressed by human genes.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. That said,

C. For example,

D. Accordingly,

ID: 3a715eca Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Accordingly" logically signals that this sentence states a result or consequence of the
previous information about the 2003 Human Genome Project. Taking into account an important lesson of the 2003
project (that a gene is affected by interactions with the protein products of other genes), research has begun to consider
the human proteome instead of just the genome.

Choice A is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a paraphrase or
restatement of the previous information about the 2003 Human Genome Project. Instead, this sentence states a result or
consequence of that information. Choice B is incorrect because "that said" illogically signals that the information in this
sentence qualifies or contrasts with the previous information about the 2003 Human Genome Project. Instead, this
sentence states a result or consequence of that information. Choice C is incorrect because "for example" illogically
signals that this sentence provides an example supporting the previous information about the 2003 Human Genome
Project. Instead, this sentence states a result or consequence of that information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d10e46a2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: d10e46a2
The ancient Spartans were known for their bitingly concise—or laconic—wit, a quality they maintained even in the face of
great peril. ______ when Philip II of Macedon threatened Laconia (the region of Greece containing Sparta), he said, “If I
invade Laconia, I shall turn you out.” The Spartans replied with a single word: “If.”

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Rather,

B. In other words,

C. That said,

D. For instance,

ID: d10e46a2 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "For instance" logically signals that the concise, witty exchange between Philip II and the
Spartans is an example supporting the previous claim—that the Spartans employed wit even in the face of peril.

Choice A is incorrect because "rather" illogically signals that the exchange between Philip II and the Spartans contrasts
with the previous claim about the Spartans’ wit. Instead, the exchange is an example of their wit. Choice B is incorrect
because "in other words" illogically signals that the exchange between Philip II and the Spartans is a restatement of the
previous claim about the Spartans’ wit. Instead, the exchange is an example of their wit. Choice C is incorrect because
"that said" illogically signals that the exchange between Philip II and the Spartans is an exception to the previous claim
about the Spartans’ wit. Instead, the exchange is an example of their wit.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 00e0170f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 00e0170f
Magnetic levitation (maglev) trains are suspended above a track by powerful electromagnets, reducing friction and thus
allowing for much faster speeds. Though maglev advocates in the US have long imagined these trains crisscrossing the
country, their dream remains unrealized. ______ of the handful of maglev trains currently in operation, all are in Asia.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In fact,

B. To that end,

C. Nevertheless,

D. That said,

ID: 00e0170f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. This sentence emphasizes just how far maglev advocates’ dreams are from coming true. “In
fact” is a transition used to emphasize the truth of a statement that modifies the previous statement and therefore fits
perfectly in this context.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Maglev advocates’
dream remaining unrealized would not cause there to be only a few maglev trains, all located in Asia. Choice C is
incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition, which doesn’t make sense here. In fact, this sentence agrees with
the previous sentence—both talk about how maglev trains are far from becoming common in the US. Choice D is
incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition, which doesn’t make sense here. In fact, this sentence agrees with
the previous sentence—both talk about how maglev trains are far from becoming common in the US.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c071eca2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: c071eca2
Iraqi artist Nazik Al-Malaika, celebrated as the first Arabic poet to write in free verse, didn’t reject traditional forms
entirely; her poem “Elegy for a Woman of No Importance” consists of two ten-line stanzas and a standard number of
syllables. Even in this superficially traditional work, ______ Al-Malaika was breaking new ground by memorializing an
anonymous woman rather than a famous man.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. therefore,

B. in fact,

C. moreover,

D. though,

ID: c071eca2 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika sometimes used "traditional forms". The second
tells us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was "breaking new ground". To connect these ideas, we
need a contrast word like "but." "Though" is a contrast word similar to "but."

Choice A is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika sometimes used "traditional
forms". The second tells us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was "breaking new ground". To
connect these ideas, we need a contrast word like "but." "Therefore" doesn’t show contrast; it shows cause and effect.
Choice B is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika sometimes used "traditional
forms". The second tells us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was "breaking new ground". To
connect these ideas, we need a contrast word like "but." "In fact" is a phrase that usually emphasizes the truth of the
previous statement. Choice C is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that Al-Malaika
sometimes used "traditional forms". The second tells us that even when she used traditional forms, Al-Malaika was
"breaking new ground". To connect these ideas, we need a contrast word like "but." "Moreover" doesn’t show contrast—it
introduces additional information that continues or supports the previous idea.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID feb1e6da
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: feb1e6da
Biographer Michael Gorra notes that the novelist Henry James “lived in a world of second thoughts,” frequently tinkering
with his novels and stories after their initial publication. However, the differences between the 1881 first edition and the
1908 edition of his novel A Portrait of a Lady are extreme, even by James’s standards; ______ some critics regard the two
editions as two different novels altogether.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. by contrast,

B. in fact,

C. nevertheless,

D. in other words,

ID: feb1e6da Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "In fact" logically signals that the critics’ claim at the end of this sentence—that the two
editions are essentially two different novels altogether—offers additional emphasis in support of the previous claim that
the differences between the editions are extreme.

Choice A is incorrect because "by contrast" illogically signals that the claim at the end of this sentence contrasts with the
previous claim about the differences between the editions. Instead, the critics’ opinion offers additional emphasis in
support of that claim. Choice C is incorrect because "nevertheless" illogically signals that the claim at the end of this
sentence is true despite the previous claim about the differences between the two editions. Instead, the critics’ opinion
offers additional emphasis in support of that claim. Choice D is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that
the claim at the end of this sentence is merely paraphrasing the previous claim about the differences between the two
editions. The critics’ opinion adds new information to the previous claim rather than simply paraphrasing it.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 176edca6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 176edca6
A 2017 study of sign language learners tested the role of iconicity—the similarity of a sign to the thing it represents—in
language acquisition. The study found that the greater the iconicity of a sign, the more likely it was to have been learned.
______ the correlation between acquisition and iconicity was lower than that between acquisition and another factor
studied: sign frequency.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In fact,

B. In other words,

C. Granted,

D. As a result,

ID: 176edca6 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Granted” logically signals that the following information—that iconicity is not as highly
correlated with acquisition as sign frequency—is true in spite of the information about the correlation between iconicity
and acquisition in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because “in fact” illogically signals that the sentence that follows either emphasizes or refutes the
information in the previous sentence regarding the correlation between iconicity and acquisition. Instead, the sentence
that follows provides additional information that is true in spite of the preceding information; it neither emphasizes nor
refutes that information. Choice B is incorrect because “in other words” illogically signals that the sentence that follows
is a restatement of the information in the previous sentence; instead, the sentence that follows provides additional
information that is true in spite of the preceding information. Choice D is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals
that the sentence that follows is a result of the information in the previous sentence regarding the correlation between
iconicity and acquisition; instead, the sentence that follows is true in spite of the preceding information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4105f5ac
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4105f5ac
When, in 2017, Cambridge University students Lucy Moss and Toby Marlow decided they wanted to develop a musical
together, one of their goals was for their female actor friends to have good parts to play. ______ they created the show
Six, a retelling of the history of King Henry VIII’s wives in which each of the six queens has a starring role.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. In summary,

C. For example,

D. To that end,

ID: 4105f5ac Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "To that end" logically signals that the information in this sentence—the students’ creation of
a show with six starring female roles—is the product of a goal or desire in the previous sentence (the students’ wish to
develop a musical with roles for female actors).

Choice A is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a paraphrase or
restatement of the previous information about the students’ wish to develop a musical with roles for female actors.
Instead, the students’ show is the product of that desire. Choice B is incorrect because "in summary" illogically signals
that the information in this sentence summarizes the previous information about the students’ wish to develop a musical
with roles for female actors. Instead, the students’ show is the product of that desire. Choice C is incorrect because "for
example" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely an example of the previous information about
the students’ wish to develop a musical with roles for female actors. Instead, the students’ show is the direct product of
that desire.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 388b45aa
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 388b45aa
Establishing Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) is no easy task. Each month, readings of a single second from atomic
clocks around the world are taken and sent to the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) in France. ______
BIPM metrologists perform the meticulous work of assembling these minutely disparate readings into a globally shared
time standard.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. There,

B. In particular,

C. For example,

D. Conversely,

ID: 388b45aa Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "There" indicates that the work of calculating Coordinated Universal Time takes place at the
International Bureau of Weights and Measures in France. Because "there" indicates a location, it fits the context perfectly.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. This sentence is
describing where the work of coordinating Coordinated Universal Time takes place, not giving an example of the work
described in the previous sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t
make sense here. This sentence is describing where the work of coordinating Coordinated Universal Time takes place,
not giving an example of the work described in the previous sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a
disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous sentence. They both describe the work
involved in calculating Coordinated Universal Time.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 37ec26e7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 37ec26e7
In order to create the Global Positioning System (GPS), scientists had to develop an accurate mathematical model of
Earth’s shape that accounted for various forces, such as tides. ______ it was mathematician Gladys West who wrote the
computer program that could perform these necessary calculations.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Ultimately,

B. In other words,

C. Secondly,

D. In addition,

ID: 37ec26e7 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "Ultimately" logically signals that West’s completion of the computer program was the
conclusion of the process described in the previous sentence, in which scientists working on GPS sought to develop a
mathematical model of Earth.

Choice B is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information about West’s program is a
restatement of the information about the scientists’ efforts to develop a mathematical model of Earth. Instead, West’s
program was the conclusion of those efforts. Choice C is incorrect because "secondly" illogically signals that West’s
completion of the computer program was merely the next step in the scientists’ efforts to develop a mathematical model
of Earth. Instead, West’s program was the conclusion of those efforts. Choice D is incorrect because "in addition"
illogically signals that West’s completion of the computer program was merely additional information related to the
scientists’ work on GPS. Instead, West’s program was the conclusion of the scientists’ efforts to develop a mathematical
model of Earth.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 290a5d77
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 290a5d77
Guard cells are specialized cells that are part of a plant’s pores. These cells help regulate the amount of carbon dioxide a
plant takes in. ______ they help regulate a plant’s water loss.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Additionally,

B. Previously,

C. In conclusion,

D. Instead,

ID: 290a5d77 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "Additionally" logically signals that guard cells’ role in regulating water loss is an additional
function of these specialized plant cells that is separate from the function of regulating carbon dioxide intake.

Choice B is incorrect because "previously" illogically signals that the activity described in this sentence occurs earlier in a
chronological sequence of events than the regulation of carbon dioxide intake described in the previous sentence.
Instead, regulating water loss is an additional function of guard cells that is separate from the function of regulating
carbon dioxide intake. Choice C is incorrect because "in conclusion" illogically signals that the description of guard cells’
role in regulating water loss concludes or summarizes the information about guard cells provided in the previous
sentences. Instead, regulating water loss is one of the two distinct functions of guard cells described in the text. Choice
D is incorrect because "instead" illogically signals that the activity described in this sentence happens in place of the
activity of regulating carbon dioxide intake described in the previous sentence. Rather, regulating water loss is an
additional function of guard cells.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 1c6e1d55
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1c6e1d55
Historically, most conductors of major orchestras and opera companies have been European men, but a new, more
diverse generation of artists is stepping up to the podium. Mexico’s Alondra de la Parra took over as conductor for the
Queensland Symphony Orchestra in 2017, ______ and Colombia’s Lina Gonzalez-Granados did the same for the Los
Angeles Opera in 2022.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in addition,

B. lastly,

C. granted,

D. for instance,

ID: 1c6e1d55 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “For instance” logically signals that the details in this sentence—that Mexican conductor
Alondra de la Parra and Colombian conductor Lina Gonzalez-Granados took new conducting positions—are examples
supporting the previous claim about the new generation of artists.

Choice A is incorrect because “in addition” illogically signals that the details in this sentence about de la Parra and
Gonzalez-Granados are merely additional facts related to the previous claim about the new generation of artists. Instead,
they are examples supporting that claim. Choice B is incorrect because “lastly” illogically signals that the details in this
sentence about de la Parra and Gonzalez-Granados are the last step or a concluding summary of the previous claim
about the new generation of artists. Instead, they are examples supporting that claim. Choice C is incorrect because
“granted” illogically signals that the details in this sentence about de la Parra and Gonzalez-Granados are exceptions to
the previous claim about the new generation of artists. Instead, they are examples supporting that claim.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8622320e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 8622320e
Earth’s auroras—colorful displays of light seen above the northern and southern poles—result, broadly speaking, from the
Sun’s activity. ______ the Sun releases charged particles that are captured by Earth’s magnetic field and channeled toward
the poles. These particles then collide with atoms in the atmosphere, causing the atoms to emit auroral light.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Specifically,

B. Similarly,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Hence,

ID: 8622320e Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Specifically” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the Sun releases
charged particles that later collide with atoms, resulting in auroral light—provides specific, precise details about how
auroras result from the Sun’s activity.

Choice B is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is similar to the general
information about auroras in the previous sentence. Instead, this sentence provides specific, precise details about how
auroras form. Choice C is incorrect because “nevertheless” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is
despite the general information about auroras in the previous sentence. Instead, this sentence provides specific, precise
details about how auroras form. Choice D is incorrect because “hence” illogically signals that the information in this
sentence is a result of the general information about auroras in the previous sentence. Instead, this sentence provides
specific, precise details about how auroras form.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 0d088ae0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0d088ae0
Observing that a fire in a closed container soon went out, leading eighteenth-century scientists did not conclude that
fresh air (specifically, oxygen) is necessary for combustion; instead, many theorized that the container’s air had become
saturated with a substance called phlogiston. ______ when Joseph Priestley first isolated oxygen gas in 1774, he termed
it “dephlogisticated air.”

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. For this reason,

C. Alternatively,

D. Nevertheless,

ID: 0d088ae0 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "For this reason" logically signals that the reason Joseph Priestley termed oxygen
"dephlogisticated air" was that he accepted the theory mentioned in the previous sentence—that the presence of
phlogiston, rather than the absence of oxygen, causes fire in a closed container to go out.

Choice A is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information about Priestley terming oxygen
"dephlogisticated air" is a restatement of the previous theory concerning phlogiston. Instead, Priestley chose the term as
a result of this theory. Choice C is incorrect because "alternatively" illogically signals that Priestley termed oxygen
"dephlogisticated air" as an alternative to the previous theory concerning phlogiston. Instead, Priestley chose the term as
a result of this theory. Choice D is incorrect because "nevertheless" illogically signals that Priestley termed oxygen
"dephlogisticated air" despite the previous theory concerning phlogiston. Instead, Priestley chose the term as a result of
this theory.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 249508d9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 249508d9
With his room-sized installation Unicorn/My Private Sky, Norwegian artist Børre Sæthre succeeds in creating a whimsical
yet perplexing experience. ______ when visitors set foot inside the fantastically blue room and encounter the life-sized
stuffed unicorn preening at the far end of it, they are both dazzled and confused—as if stepping into a strange and
enchanting new world.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Second,

B. Instead,

C. Indeed,

D. Nevertheless,

ID: 249508d9 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "Indeed" logically signals that the description of the art installation in this sentence—its blue
room and preening unicorn that leave visitors "dazzled and confused"—offers additional emphasis in support of the
previous sentence’s claim about the installation’s "whimsical yet perplexing experience."

Choice A is incorrect because "second" illogically signals that the description in this sentence is a second, separate claim
from the previous sentence’s claim about the installation’s "whimsical yet perplexing experience." Instead, the specific
details describing the installation emphasize and support the previous claim. Choice B is incorrect because "instead"
illogically signals that the description in this sentence is an alternative to the previous sentence’s claim about the
installation’s "whimsical yet perplexing experience." Rather, the specific details describing the installation emphasize and
support that claim. Choice D is incorrect because "nevertheless" illogically signals that the description in this sentence is
true despite the previous sentence’s claim about the installation’s "whimsical yet perplexing experience." Instead, the
specific details describing the installation emphasize and support that claim.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID d3725911
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: d3725911
In the search for extraterrestrial life, astrobiologists Stuart Bartlett and Michael L. Wong propose that scientists avoid
using the term “life.” ______ researchers should use another word: “lyfe.” This new term, they argue, could be used to draw
distinctions between the known characteristics of life on Earth and the potentially differing characteristics of lyfe on
other planets.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Previously,

B. Regardless,

C. There,

D. Instead,

ID: d3725911 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Instead" logically signals that the idea in this sentence—that researchers should use the
word "lyfe"—is an alternative to the idea mentioned in the previous sentence (scientists’ use of the word "life").

Choice A is incorrect because "previously" illogically signals that the idea in this sentence occurs before the action in the
first sentence. Instead, the use of "lyfe" is an alternative to the previously mentioned use of "life." Choice B is incorrect
because "regardless" illogically signals that the idea in this sentence is true despite the information in the first sentence.
Instead, the use of "lyfe" is an alternative to the previously mentioned use of "life." Choice C is incorrect because "there"
illogically signals that the idea in this sentence occurs in a place mentioned in the previous sentence. Instead, the use of
"lyfe" is an alternative to the previously mentioned use of "life."

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 9f1a0d91
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9f1a0d91
“Tulip mania”—the rapid rise and sudden fall of the price of tulip bulbs in seventeenth-century Amsterdam—is often cited
as an example of the perils of rampant market speculation. However, recent research has demonstrated that the episode
was neither as frenzied nor as disastrous as has been thought. The popular myth surrounding it, ______ should be
regarded with some skepticism.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. for example,

B. by contrast,

C. nevertheless,

D. therefore,

ID: 9f1a0d91 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. This sentence is arguing that new evidence contradicting popular beliefs about “tulip mania”
should cast doubt on those beliefs. “Therefore” is a cause-and-effect transition, which fits perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses an exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Skepticism about
the popular beliefs is not an example of recent evidence contradicting those beliefs—rather, skepticism is an effect of
that recent evidence. Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t
disagree with the previous sentence. Instead, it connects a cause from the previous sentence (new evidence that tulip
mania was not as disastrous as thought) to an effect (that we should look with skepticism upon the myth about its
disastrousness). Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree
with the previous sentence. Instead, it connects a cause from the previous sentence (new evidence that tulip mania was
not as disastrous as thought) to an effect (that we should look with skepticism upon the myth about its disastrousness).

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a2bff07e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a2bff07e
Economist Elinor Ostrom’s studies of communities around the world have empirically demonstrated that common pool
resources, such as grazing lands, can be sustainably managed by the people who use them (rather than through private
entities or centralized governments). ______ Ostrom’s work is a repudiation of the “tragedy of the commons,” the view that
individuals will inevitably overexploit a finite shared resource if given unfettered access to it.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. By contrast,

B. For example,

C. That said,

D. As such,

ID: a2bff07e Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "As such" correctly signals that the claim in this sentence—that Ostrom’s work is a
repudiation of the "tragedy of the commons" view—follows logically from the information about Ostrom’s studies in the
previous sentence. According to that sentence, Ostrom’s studies demonstrate that common pool resources can in fact
be sustainably managed by the people who use them.

Choice A is incorrect because "by contrast" illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the
information about Ostrom’s studies in the previous sentence. Instead, the claim that Ostrom’s work repudiates the
"tragedy of the commons" view follows logically from that information. Choice B is incorrect because "for example"
illogically signals that the claim in this sentence exemplifies the information about Ostrom’s studies in the previous
sentence. Instead, the claim that Ostrom’s work repudiates the "tragedy of the commons" view follows logically from that
information. Choice C is incorrect because "that said" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is an
exception or caveat to the information about Ostrom’s studies in the previous sentence. Instead, the claim that Ostrom’s
work repudiates the "tragedy of the commons" view follows logically from that information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 17e49403
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 17e49403
When, in the 1800s, geologists first realized that much of Earth had once been covered by great sheets of ice, some
theorized that the phenomenon was cyclical, occurring at regular intervals. Each Ice Age is so destructive, though, that it
largely erases the geological evidence of its predecessor. ______ geologists were unable to confirm the theory of cyclical
Ice Ages until the 1960s.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Hence,

B. Moreover,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Next,

ID: 17e49403 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Hence” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that geologists couldn’t
confirm the theory of cyclical Ice Ages until the 1960s—is a consequence of the previous information about the
destructiveness of each Ice Age and the erasure of necessary geological evidence.

Choice B is incorrect because “moreover” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely additional to
the previous information about the destructiveness of each Ice Age. Instead, the sentence identifies a specific
consequence of that information. Choice C is incorrect because “nevertheless” illogically signals that the information in
this sentence is true despite the previous information about the destructiveness of each Ice Age. Instead, the sentence
identifies a specific consequence of that information. Choice D is incorrect because “next” illogically signals that the
information in this sentence is the next step in a process. Instead, the sentence identifies a specific consequence of the
previous information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID b7571c0a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: b7571c0a
Practical movie effects, such as the use of actual locations in a film, provide a more realistic visual experience than
computer-generated imagery (CGI) does, but giving audiences the “real thing” can be prohibitively expensive. ______ many
filmmakers use a blended approach, employing practical effects whenever possible and CGI elements as necessary to
control costs.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. For this reason,

C. Furthermore,

D. In other words,

ID: b7571c0a Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. The first sentence tells us that practical effects are more realistic but also more expensive
than CGI. The second sentence tells us that many filmmakers use both kinds of effects, balancing realism with cost. To
connect these ideas, we need a cause-and-effect transition, like “therefore.” “For this reason” has the same meaning as
“therefore.” .

Choice A is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that practical effects are more realistic but
also more expensive than CGI. The second sentence tells us that many filmmakers use both kinds of effects, balancing
realism with cost. To connect these ideas, we need a cause-and-effect transition, like “therefore.” “Similarly” doesn’t show
cause and effect: it shows the addition of another agreeing idea. Choice C is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The
first sentence tells us that practical effects are more realistic but also more expensive than CGI. The second sentence
tells us that many filmmakers use both kinds of effects, balancing realism with cost. To connect these ideas, we need a
cause-and-effect transition, like “therefore.” “Furthermore” doesn’t show cause and effect: it shows the addition of
another agreeing idea. Choice D is incorrect. This isn’t a logical transition. The first sentence tells us that practical effects
are more realistic but also more expensive than CGI. The second sentence tells us that many filmmakers use both kinds
of effects, balancing realism with cost. To connect these ideas, we need a cause-and-effect transition, like “therefore.” “In
other words” doesn’t show cause and effect: it shows a restatement of the same idea in different words.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 1e31470f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1e31470f
To perform a quad axel, a figure skater must leap into the air and complete four and a half rotations before landing, an
extreme feat. ______ in 2022, when 17-year-old Ilia Malinin landed the first quad axel—considered the most difficult quad
jump—in a high-level competition, the audience was left awestruck.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Moreover,

B. Fittingly,

C. Next,

D. However,

ID: 1e31470f Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Fittingly" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the audience was
amazed when Malinin landed the first quad axel—describes a suitable or appropriate reaction to the completion of this
extremely difficult jump.

Choice A is incorrect. "Moreover" illogically signals that the information in this sentence merely adds to the previous
information about the difficulty of completing a quad axel. Instead, the audience’s amazement is a suitable or appropriate
reaction to this accomplishment. Choice C is incorrect. "Next" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is
simply the next step in a process. Instead, the audience’s amazement is a suitable or appropriate reaction to the
accomplishment. Choice D is incorrect. "However" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is in contrast or
an exception to the difficulty of completing a quad axel. Instead, the audience’s amazement is a suitable or appropriate
reaction to this accomplishment.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1ccfcea4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1ccfcea4
The French directors Colas Koola and Vivien Mermet-Guyenet (known as Koola and Viv) founded the video game studio
BlueTwelve. They also love cats. ______ they created an award-winning cat video game, Stray (2021), that lets the player
explore a dystopian city from the perspective of a clever orange house cat.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Intermittently,

B. On the other hand,

C. In fact,

D. Nevertheless,

ID: 1ccfcea4 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "In fact" logically signals that the information in this sentence about the creation of the video
game offers additional emphasis in support of the previous claim that video game studio founders Koola and Viv love
cats.

Choice A is incorrect because "intermittently" illogically signals that the information in this sentence occurs sporadically
or in intervals. Instead, the creation of the video game offers additional emphasis in support of the previous claim about
Koola and Viv. Choice B is incorrect because "on the other hand" illogically signals that the information in this sentence
contrasts with the previous claim about Koola and Viv. Instead, the creation of the video game offers additional
emphasis in support of that claim. Choice D is incorrect because "nevertheless" illogically signals that the information in
this sentence is true despite the previous claim that Koola and Viv love cats. Instead, the creation of the video game
offers additional emphasis in support of that claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID d54e16ee
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: d54e16ee
Originally coined by economist Joan Robinson to refer to markets with multiple sellers of a product but only one buyer,
the term “monopsony” can also refer to markets where demand for labor is limited. In a product monopsony, the single
buyer can force sellers to lower their prices. ______ in a labor monopsony, employers can force workers to accept lower
wages.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Earlier,

B. Instead,

C. Similarly,

D. In particular,

ID: d54e16ee Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Similarly” logically signals that the information in this sentence about a labor monopsony is
similar to the information in the previous sentence about a product monopsony. In both types of markets, one party (an
employer or a buyer) has the power to force another party (a worker or seller) to accept less money (for labor or
products).

Choice A is incorrect because “earlier” illogically signals that the information in this sentence about a labor monopsony
occurs earlier (in a chronological sequence) than the information about a product monopsony. Instead, it is similar to the
information about a product monopsony. Choice B is incorrect because “instead” illogically signals that the information
in this sentence about a labor monopsony is an alternative to the previous information about a product monopsony.
Instead, it is similar to the information about a product monopsony. Choice D is incorrect because “in particular”
illogically signals that the information in this sentence about a labor monopsony provides specific details elaborating on
the previous information about a product monopsony. Instead, it is similar to the information about a product
monopsony.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 47e238be
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 47e238be
Seismologists Kaiqing Yuan and Barbara Romanowicz have proposed that the magma fueling Iceland’s more than 30
active volcano systems emerges from deep within Earth. The great depths involved—nearly 3,000 km—mark Iceland’s
volcanoes as extreme outliers; ______ many of Earth’s volcanoes are fed by shallow pockets of magma found less than
15 km below the surface.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. indeed,

B. nevertheless,

C. in addition,

D. consequently,

ID: 47e238be Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The second part of the sentence says that many volcanoes use shallow pockets of magma.
This is an elaboration of the same underlying idea from the first part of the sentence, which says that the super deep
magma of Icelandic volcanoes’ makes them outliers. “Indeed” is a transition used for elaborating on the same idea, so it
fits the context perfectly.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But these two parts of the sentence agree with each
other, so “nevertheless” doesn’t make sense. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the
addition of a new idea. But the second part of the sentence isn’t adding a new idea: it’s elaborating on the same idea
expressed in the first part of the sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which
doesn’t make sense here. The fact that Iceland’s deep-magma volcanoes are outliers doesn’t cause many other
volcanoes to get fed by shallow pockets of magma.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a064955f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a064955f
In most deer species, males grow antlers, and females don’t. ______ reindeer are different. They are the only deer species
in which the females grow antlers, too.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. Next,

C. However,

D. Thus,

ID: a064955f Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "However" logically signals that the claim about reindeer in this sentence contrasts with the
information about most deer species in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because "similarly" illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is similar to the previous
information about most deer species. Instead, it contrasts with that information. Choice B is incorrect because "next"
illogically signals that the claim about reindeer in this sentence is the next step in a process. Instead, it contrasts with the
previous information about most deer species. Choice D is incorrect because "thus" illogically signals that the claim in
this sentence results from the previous information about most deer species. Instead, it contrasts with that information.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID dd087f31
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: dd087f31
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s 2013 novel Americanah chronicles the divergent experiences of Ifemelu and Obinze, a
young Nigerian couple, after high school. Ifemelu moves to the United States to attend a prestigious university. ______
Obinze travels to London, hoping to start a career there. However, frustrated with the lack of opportunities, he soon
returns to Nigeria.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Meanwhile,

B. Nevertheless,

C. Secondly,

D. In fact,

ID: dd087f31 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Meanwhile” logically signals that the action described in this sentence (Obinze’s move to
London to pursue a career) is simultaneous with the action described in the previous sentence (Ifemelu’s move to the
United States). The first sentence establishes that the actions take place around the same time, referring to the
characters’ “divergent experiences” following high school.

Choice B is incorrect because “nevertheless” illogically signals that the information in this sentence about Obinze’s move
to London is true despite the previous information about Ifemelu’s move to the United States. Instead, as the first
sentence establishes, Obinze’s move and Ifemelu’s move are related, parallel experiences that occur around the same
time. Choice C is incorrect because “secondly” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a second point
or reason separate from the previous information about Ifemelu’s move to the United States. Instead, as the first
sentence establishes, Obinze’s move and Ifemelu’s move are related, parallel experiences that occur around the same
time. Choice D is incorrect because “in fact” illogically signals that the information in this sentence emphasizes, modifies,
or contradicts the previous information about Ifemelu’s move to the United States. Instead, as the first sentence
establishes, Obinze’s move and Ifemelu’s move are related, parallel experiences that occur around the same time.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 6d883838
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 6d883838
According to Duverger’s law, countries with single-ballot majoritarian elections for single-member districts tend to
polarize into two-party systems, wherein dueling political parties consistently dominate the political system. ______
countries with proportional-representation electoral systems tend to support multi-partyism, under which power gets
distributed among many political parties.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Subsequently,

B. Conversely,

C. For instance,

D. In other words,

ID: 6d883838 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Conversely" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that countries with
proportional-representation electoral systems tend toward multi-partyism—contrasts with the previous information about
countries with single-ballot majoritarian elections, which tend to have two-party systems.

Choice A is incorrect because "subsequently" illogically signals that the information in this sentence about countries with
proportional-representation electoral systems occurs later in a chronological sequence of events than the information in
the previous sentence. Instead, it contrasts with the previous information. Choice C is incorrect because "for instance"
illogically signals that the information in this sentence about countries with proportional-representation electoral
systems is an example supporting the previous statement about countries with single-ballot majoritarian elections.
Instead, it contrasts with the previous statement. Choice D is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that
the information in this sentence about countries with proportional-representation electoral systems is a paraphrase or
restatement of the previous information about countries with single-ballot majoritarian elections. Instead, it contrasts
with the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID e965fd73
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: e965fd73
Preston Singletary is a Tlingit glass artist who often collaborates with other artists. ______ he has worked with Tewa
pottery artist Jody Naranjo several times. Together, Singletary and Naranjo have created pottery-inspired glass pieces
such as Sunset Stampede and Kiva Steps.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In conclusion,

B. For example,

C. However,

D. In comparison,

ID: e965fd73 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "For example" logically signals that this sentence—noting Singletary’s work with Jody
Naranjo—provides an example supporting the previous point about Singletary’s collaborations with other artists.

Choice A is incorrect because "in conclusion" illogically signals that the information in this sentence concludes or
summarizes the previous point about Singletary’s collaborations with other artists. Instead, it provides an example in
support of that point. Choice C is incorrect because "however" illogically signals that the information in this sentence
contrasts with the previous point about Singletary’s collaborations with other artists. Instead, it provides an example in
support of that point. Choice D is incorrect because "in comparison" illogically signals that the information in this
sentence is being compared to the previous point about Singletary’s collaborations with other artists. Instead, it provides
an example in support of that point.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 5c58cec0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 5c58cec0
To guarantee the validity of experimental results, scientists rely on precise, unchanging standards of measurement.
______ metrologists (scientists who study measurement) developed the SI, or International System of Units. The SI’s units
of measurement are based on unchanging values in nature, such as the mass of an electron or the speed of light.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In contrast,

B. Regardless,

C. In addition,

D. For this reason,

ID: 5c58cec0 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "For this reason" logically signals that the information that follows—that metrologists
developed the SI based on unchanging values in nature—is a result of the previous claim that scientists rely on precise,
unchanging standards of measurement to guarantee the validity of experimental results.

Choice A is incorrect because "in contrast" illogically signals that the information that follows contrasts with the previous
claim that scientists rely on precise, unchanging standards of measurement. Instead, the information that metrologists
developed the SI based on unchanging values in nature is a result of that claim. Choice B is incorrect because
"regardless" illogically signals that the information that follows is true despite the previous claim that scientists rely on
precise, unchanging standards of measure. Instead, the information that metrologists developed the SI based on
unchanging values in nature is a result of that claim. Choice C is incorrect because "in addition" illogically signals that the
information that follows is merely an additional fact related to the previous claim that scientists rely on precise,
unchanging standards of measurement. Instead, the information that metrologists developed the SI based on
unchanging values in nature is a result of that claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 0c13dea9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0c13dea9
The chemical trimethylamine N-oxide not only gives fish their fishy smell but also protects them from crushing
hydrostatic pressure in deep waters. Trimethylamine N-oxide strengthens the bonds between water molecules in a fish’s
body. ______ these water molecules maintain their linked structure at extreme depths, thus preventing pressure-related
damage.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Nevertheless,

B. As a result,

C. However,

D. For instance,

ID: 0c13dea9 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “As a result” indicates that water molecules maintaining their linked structure at high
pressures is caused by the strengthening of these water molecules by trimethylamine N-oxide. So the transition “as a
result” fits the context perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous
one—rather, it’s describing an effect of the phenomenon described in the previous sentence. Choice C is incorrect. This
choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous one; it actually expands on
the previous sentence by describing an effect of the strengthened molecules. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses an
exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The second sentence doesn’t provide an example or instance
of the idea in the previous sentence. Instead, it explores the effects of the previous idea in more depth.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 4fde4454
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4fde4454
One poll taken after the first 1960 presidential debate suggested that John Kennedy lost badly: only 21 percent of those
who listened on the radio rated him the winner. ______ the debate was ultimately considered a victory for the telegenic
young senator, who rated higher than his opponent, Vice President Richard Nixon, among those watching on the new
medium of television.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. Therefore,

C. Likewise,

D. Nevertheless,

ID: 4fde4454 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Nevertheless” logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that the telegenic Kennedy
was ultimately considered the winner of the debate—is true despite the previous information about the poll of radio
listeners.

Choice A is incorrect because “in other words” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is a paraphrase of the
previous information about the poll of radio listeners. Instead, Kennedy was ultimately considered the winner despite
what that poll suggested about his performance. Choice B is incorrect because “therefore” illogically signals that the
claim in this sentence is a result of the previous information about the poll of radio listeners. Instead, Kennedy was
ultimately considered the winner despite what that poll suggested about his performance. Choice C is incorrect because
“likewise” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is similar to the previous information about the poll of radio
listeners. Instead, Kennedy was ultimately considered the winner despite what that poll suggested about his
performance.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 1872cd6d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1872cd6d
When printing paper money for the colony of Pennsylvania in the 1730s, Benjamin Franklin—then a Philadelphia shop
owner—took steps to combat the circulation of counterfeit notes, such as weaving blue threads and muscovite (a
reflective mineral) into the paper he used. ______ he stamped the notes with detailed imprints of sage leaves that proved
difficult for forgers to replicate.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Specifically,

B. That said,

C. For example,

D. Moreover,

ID: 1872cd6d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Moreover" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Franklin stamped
imprints on paper money to make forgery more difficult—adds to the previous information by describing Franklin’s other
strategy for combatting forgers: weaving materials into the paper used for printing money.

Choice A is incorrect because "specifically" illogically signals that the information in this sentence provides specific,
precise details elaborating on the previous information about Franklin’s other strategy for combatting forgers (weaving
materials into paper). Instead, this information about stamping imprints on money adds new information. Choice B is
incorrect because "that said" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is an exception to the previous
information about Franklin’s other strategy for combatting forgers (weaving materials into paper). Instead, this
information about stamping imprints on money adds new information. Choice C is incorrect because "for example"
illogically signals that the information in this sentence serves as an example of the previous information about Franklin’s
other strategy for combatting forgers (weaving materials into paper). Instead, this information about stamping imprints
on money adds new information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0fd4df40
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0fd4df40
The Alaska Native Language Archive (ANLA) is known for its impressive audio collection. ______ the ANLA has more than
5,000 audio recordings of Native Alaskan languages dating as far back as 1943.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In fact,

B. After,

C. Regardless,

D. Instead,

ID: 0fd4df40 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "In fact" logically signals that the information in this sentence about the large number of
recordings in ANLA’s collection emphasizes and supports the previous claim that ANLA is known for its impressive audio
collection.

Choice B is incorrect because "after" illogically signals that the information in this sentence occurs later in a sequence of
events than the previous claim about ANLA’s impressive audio collection. Instead, the information about the large
number of recordings emphasizes and supports that claim. Choice C is incorrect because "regardless" illogically signals
that the information in this sentence is true despite the previous claim about ANLA’s impressive audio collection. Instead,
the information about the large number of recordings emphasizes and supports that claim. Choice D is incorrect
because "instead" illogically signals that the information in this sentence presents an alternative to the previous claim
about ANLA’s impressive audio collection. Rather, the information about the large number of recordings emphasizes and
supports that claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f114cbf0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: f114cbf0
A firefly uses specialized muscles to draw oxygen into its lower abdomen through narrow tubes, triggering a chemical
reaction whereby the oxygen combines with chemicals in the firefly’s abdomen to produce a glow. ______ when the firefly
stops drawing in oxygen, the reaction—and the glow—cease.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For instance,

B. By contrast,

C. Specifically,

D. In conclusion,

ID: f114cbf0 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “By contrast” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that a firefly’s glow
ceases when it stops drawing in oxygen—contrasts with the previous sentence’s discussion of the processes that cause
a firefly to begin to glow.

Choice A is incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that the information in the sentence exemplifies the
previous sentence’s discussion of how a firefly begins to glow. Instead, it contrasts with the previous sentence’s
discussion. Choice C is incorrect because “specifically” illogically signals that the information in the sentence provides
specific details elaborating on the previous sentence’s discussion of how a firefly begins to glow. Instead, it contrasts
with the previous sentence’s discussion. Choice D is incorrect because “in conclusion” illogically signals that the
information in the sentence sums up the previous sentence’s discussion of how a firefly begins to glow. Instead, it
contrasts with the previous sentence’s discussion.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID b7c404d1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: b7c404d1
With her room-sized installation The Interstitium, Iranian American artist Laleh Mehran succeeded in creating a space
that felt, as intended, both “familiar and distant.” ______ with a video screen placed at the far end of the coal slag-
encrusted room, her installation was reminiscent of a typical movie theater—albeit one found in a subterranean coal
mine.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Next,

B. Nevertheless,

C. Indeed,

D. Instead,

ID: b7c404d1 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "Indeed" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Laleh Mehran’s
installation resembled both a typical movie theater and a coal mine—supports the previous sentence’s claim that the
space Mehran created felt both "familiar and distant."

Choice A is incorrect because "next" illogically signals that the description of Laleh Mehran’s installation in this sentence
is the next step in a process. Rather, it supports the previous sentence’s claim about Mehran’s installation. Choice B is
incorrect because "nevertheless" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is true despite the claim about
Laleh Mehran’s installation in the previous sentence. Rather, it supports that claim. Choice D is incorrect because
"instead" illogically signals that this sentence presents an alternative to the previous sentence’s claim about Laleh
Mehran’s installation. Rather, it supports that claim.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID ad729337
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ad729337
With its clichéd imagery of suburban lawns and power lines, John Ashbery’s 2004 poem “Ignorance of the Law Is No
Excuse” may seem barren terrain for critical analysis. ______ cultural critic Lauren Berlant finds fertile ground in just its
first two stanzas, devoting most of a book chapter to deciphering the “weight of the default space” Ashbery creates in
this poem.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Likewise,

B. Nonetheless,

C. In turn,

D. That is,

ID: ad729337 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Nonetheless” is a transition that indicates disagreement. The first sentence describes the
unlikelihood of finding much for critical analysis in Ashbery’s poem (“barren terrain”), while the second sentence
describes how Berlant did in fact find much to analyze in Ashbery’s poem (“fertile ground”), so the transition
“nonetheless” fits perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of a new but similar idea, which doesn’t
make sense here. The idea in this sentence directly contradicts the idea in the previous sentence. Choice C is incorrect.
This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense in this context—a poem seemingly having little
opportunity for critical analysis would not cause someone to write an extensive critical analysis (in fact, we might expect
the opposite). Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea in other
words. But the text isn’t restating the first idea here. Instead, it’s offering a contradiction to the idea expressed in the first
sentence.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5e93039f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 5e93039f
Roughly once an hour, a torrent of boiling water shoots up 100 feet or more from Yellowstone’s Old Faithful geyser before
plunging back to the surface—a cycle seemingly inhospitable to life. ______ as microbiologist Eric Boyd attests, “the
geyser is…almost like a cradle for biodiversity,” home to numerous bacteria species that thrive in its sulfurous waters.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Thus,

B. Specifically,

C. Still,

D. In other words,

ID: 5e93039f Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "Still" logically signals that the information in this sentence about Old Faithful’s thriving
bacteria species is true despite the previous claim that conditions at the geyser seem as if they would be inhospitable to
life.

Choice A is incorrect because "thus" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a result or consequence of
the previous claim about Old Faithful’s seemingly inhospitable conditions. Instead, this information about the geyser’s
many thriving bacteria species is true despite the previous claim. Choice B is incorrect because "specifically" illogically
signals that the information in this sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on the previous claim about
Old Faithful’s seemingly inhospitable conditions. Instead, this information about the geyser’s many thriving bacteria
species is true despite the previous claim. Choice D is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the
information in this sentence serves as a paraphrase or restatement of the previous claim about Old Faithful’s seemingly
inhospitable conditions. Instead, this information about the geyser’s many thriving bacteria species is true despite the
previous claim.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 0f9ed134
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0f9ed134
In 1974, Mexican chemist Mario Molina and US chemist F. Sherwood Rowland discovered that chemicals called CFCs
were harmful to the ozone layer. Their research was extremely influential in the fight against CFCs. ______ it laid the
foundation for a 1987 treaty that phased out the use of CFCs across the globe.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Regardless,

B. Specifically,

C. However,

D. Earlier,

ID: 0f9ed134 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Specifically" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Molina and
Rowland’s research laid the foundation for a later treaty—provides specific, precise details elaborating on the previous
sentence’s more general claim about the influence of the research.

Choice A is incorrect because "regardless" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is true despite the
previous sentence’s claim about the influence of Molina and Rowland’s research. Instead, this information—that the
research laid the foundation for a later treaty—provides specific details elaborating on the previous claim. Choice C is
incorrect because "however" illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the previous
sentence’s claim about the influence of Molina and Rowland’s research. Instead, this information—that the research laid
the foundation for a later treaty—provides specific details elaborating on the previous claim. Choice D is incorrect
because "earlier" illogically signals that the information in this sentence occurred at a time before Molina and Rowland’s
research influenced the fight against CFCs. Instead, this information—that the research laid the foundation for a later
treaty—provides specific details elaborating on the previous claim about the research’s influence.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 9e3a215b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9e3a215b
A 2022 study by researchers Hala Altamimi and Qiaozhen Liu investigated the relationship between nonprofit arts
organizations’ spending and performance. ______ the researchers examined the correlation between how much 22,328
US arts nonprofits spent on overhead—operational costs such as equipment and fundraising—and how many people
attended their events (a measure of overall success).

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Thus,

B. In addition,

C. By comparison,

D. Specifically,

ID: 9e3a215b Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Specifically" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the researchers
examined the overhead costs and attendance at events of 22,328 nonprofits—provides specific, precise details
elaborating on how the researchers investigated the relationship between nonprofits’ spending and performance.

Choice A is incorrect. "Thus" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a result or consequence of the
researchers’ investigation of nonprofits’ spending and performance. Instead, it specifies how they examined that
correlation. Choice B is incorrect. "In addition" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely an
additional fact about the researchers’ investigation of nonprofits’ spending and performance. Instead, it specifies how
they examined that correlation. Choice C is incorrect. "By comparison" illogically signals that the information in this
sentence is being compared to the researchers’ investigation of nonprofits’ spending and performance. Instead, it
specifies how they examined that correlation.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 0ee64efc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0ee64efc
In the 1850s, William Still was instrumental in helping nearly 1,000 people escape from slavery, earning him the moniker
“the Father of the Underground Railroad.” ______ despite the fame of his contributions during his lifetime, Still is
discussed far less today than other prominent Black abolitionists from his era, such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet
Tubman.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. However,

C. Specifically,

D. Similarly,

ID: 0ee64efc Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "However" is used to indicate a contrast between two ideas. The first sentence describes
how Still used to be famous. This sentence describes how Still is not very famous today, so the transition "however" fits
perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an example. But the second sentence doesn’t provide
a specific example of Still’s famous contributions to the Underground Railroad. Instead, it changes the subject to how his
fame has faded over time. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an example or continuation
of a previous idea. But the second sentence doesn’t provide a specific example of Still’s famous contributions to the
Underground Railroad. Instead, it changes the subject to how his fame has faded over time. Choice D is incorrect. This
choice uses a transition that indicates the agreement between two ideas. But this sentence shows a contrast with the
first sentence—namely, that Still used to be very famous but now isn’t very famous.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID b8eec031
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: b8eec031
Researchers Helena Mihaljević-Brandt, Lucía Santamaría, and Marco Tullney report that while mathematicians may have
traditionally worked alone, evidence points to a shift in the opposite direction. ______ mathematicians are choosing to
collaborate with their peers—a trend illustrated by a rise in the number of mathematics publications credited to multiple
authors.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. For this reason,

C. Furthermore,

D. Increasingly,

ID: b8eec031 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Increasingly” logically signals that the claim in this sentence—that mathematicians are
collaborating with their peers—marks a change relative to what was traditionally done. As the previous sentence explains,
while mathematicians may have traditionally worked alone, evidence points to a shift in the opposite direction. The claim
describes the shift: a rise in collaboration.

Choice A is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is similar to, but separate from,
the previous claim about the shift away from mathematicians working alone. Instead, the claim about the rise in
collaboration elaborates on the previous claim, describing the shift. Choice B is incorrect because “for this reason”
illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is caused by the previous claim about the shift away from
mathematicians working alone. Instead, the claim about the rise in collaboration elaborates on the previous claim,
describing the shift. Choice C is incorrect because “furthermore” illogically signals that the claim in this sentence is in
addition to the previous claim about the shift away from mathematicians working alone. Instead, the claim about the rise
in collaboration elaborates on the previous claim, describing the shift.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 273c2f12
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 273c2f12
Jeffrey Gibson’s sculptural object KNOW YOUR MAGIC, BABY, an Everlast-brand exercise bag embroidered with
multicolored beads and a fringe associated with the dances of the Ojibwe people, stitches together—literally and
figuratively—recognizable symbols from both Native and non-Native cultures. ______ Gibson’s piece also blurs the
distinction between contemporary art and traditional crafts.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Conversely,

B. In so doing,

C. For instance,

D. In particular,

ID: 273c2f12 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "In so doing" logically signals that the information in this sentence about Gibson’s piece—
that it blurs the distinction between contemporary art and traditional crafts—is a result or consequence of the piece’s
blending of particular Native and non-Native cultural symbols.

Choice A is incorrect. "Conversely" illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the previous
information about the blending of particular cultural symbols in Gibson’s piece. Instead, it presents a result or
consequence of that information. Choice C is incorrect. "For instance" illogically signals that this sentence provides an
example supporting the previous information about the blending of particular cultural symbols in Gibson’s piece. Instead,
it presents a result or consequence of that information. Choice D is incorrect. "In particular" illogically signals that this
sentence provides specific details elaborating on the previous information about the blending of particular cultural
symbols in Gibson’s piece. Instead, it presents a result or consequence of that information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 9e34720b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9e34720b
Although those who migrated to California in 1849 dreamed of finding gold nuggets in streambeds, the state’s richest
deposits were buried deeply in rock, beyond the reach of individual prospectors. ______ by 1852, many had given up their
fortune-hunting dreams and gone to work for one of the large companies capable of managing California’s complex
mining operations.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Furthermore,

B. Still,

C. Consequently,

D. Next,

ID: 9e34720b Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Consequently” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that many individual
gold prospectors gave up their fortune-hunting dreams and became employees of mining companies—is a result or
consequence of the previous information about the inaccessibility of the state’s gold deposits.

Choice A is incorrect because “furthermore” illogically signals that the information in this sentence merely adds to the
previous information about the inaccessibility of the state’s gold deposits. Instead, it’s a result or consequence of that
information. Choice B is incorrect because “still” illogically signals that the information in this sentence offers a contrast
or exception to the previous information about the inaccessibility of the state’s gold deposits. Instead, it’s a result or
consequence of that information. Choice D is incorrect because “next” illogically signals that the information in this
sentence is the next step in a process. Instead, it’s a result or consequence of the previous information about the
inaccessibility of the state’s gold deposits.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 6036ad0e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 6036ad0e
In 2014, Nestor Gomez won his first-ever storytelling competition, relating a tale about his life as a Guatemalan
immigrant living in Chicago. ______ in 2017, Gomez created the show 80 Minutes Around the World as a platform for
others to share stories about their immigration experiences.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Instead,

B. For example,

C. Later,

D. In other words,

ID: 6036ad0e Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "Later" logically signals that the information in the sentence—that in 2017 Gomez created a
platform for others to share stories about their immigration experiences—occurs later in a chronological series of events
than the previous information about Gomez winning his first storytelling competition in 2014.

Choice A is incorrect because "instead" illogically signals that Gomez created a platform for others to share stories about
their immigration experiences as an alternative to winning his first storytelling competition. Rather, Gomez created the
platform later—in a chronological series of events—than when he won the competition. Choice B is incorrect because "for
example" illogically signals that the information about Gomez creating a platform for others to share stories exemplifies
his winning his first storytelling competition. Rather, Gomez created the platform later—in a chronological series of
events—than when he won the competition. Choice D is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the
information about Gomez creating a platform for others to share stories is merely a paraphrase or restatement of the
previous information about Gomez winning his first storytelling competition. Rather, Gomez created the platform later—in
a chronological series of events—than when he won the competition.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 63c73b50
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 63c73b50
In 2018, Kurt Luther and Vikram Mohanty created the web-based tool Civil War Photo Sleuth (CWPS). A user uploading an
unknown Civil War soldier’s photograph to CWPS first tags the photo with all known information. ______ CWPS’s facial-
recognition software analyzes twenty-seven different physical features and looks for matches to tagged images already
in the database.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Then,

B. In fact,

C. Likewise,

D. For example,

ID: 63c73b50 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Then” indicates that the events in this sentence took place after the events in the previous
sentence. Only after users upload images of unknown soldiers can those images be analyzed.

Choice B is incorrect. This transition is used to emphasize the truth of a statement that modifies the previous statement.
But this sentence doesn’t modify the step described in the previous statement: instead, it introduces an entirely new step
in the process. So “in fact” wouldn’t make sense here. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates
the addition of a new but related idea, which doesn’t make sense here. Analyzing the physical features in the uploaded
photographs isn’t a similar idea, but rather the next step in the process. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses an
exemplification transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Analyzing physical features is not an example of uploading
and tagging an image.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 3831f2d7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 3831f2d7
Arkansas aviator Louise Thaden was already a record breaker when she won the inaugural National Women’s Air Derby, a
race from California to Ohio, in August of 1929. ______ in December of 1928, Thaden had set an aviation record when she
reached an altitude of 20,269 feet in a Travel Air biplane.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Earlier,

B. However,

C. Next,

D. As a result,

ID: 3831f2d7 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. This choice uses a transition that indicates a shift back in time. Since the first sentence
talks about Thaden’s race win in 1929 and the second shifts back to talking about her record in 1928, this makes the
most sense here.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with and expands on
the previous sentence by describing the earlier record that Thaden had "already" held. Choice C is incorrect. This choice
uses a transition that indicates a shift forward in time, which doesn’t make sense here. A record in 1928 didn’t come after
Thaden’s race win in 1929. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make
sense in this context—an event in 1929 can’t cause something in 1928.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID c4f7f726
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: c4f7f726
Many butterfly species have bold, brightly colored wings. ______ some butterfly species have wings that are almost
completely colorless and transparent. Glasswing butterflies, for example, have see-through wings that make them nearly
invisible.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Similarly,

B. Previously,

C. In other words,

D. However,

ID: c4f7f726 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "However" logically signals that the information in this sentence about butterfly species—
that some have colorless, transparent wings—contrasts with the previous information about butterfly species with bold,
colorful wings.

Choice A is incorrect because "similarly" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is similar to the previous
information about butterfly species. Instead, it contrasts with the previous information. Choice B is incorrect because
"previously" illogically signals that this sentence describes an event that occurred before another event. Instead, the
sentence provides information about butterfly species that contrasts with the information in the first sentence. Choice C
is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a paraphrase or
restatement of the previous information about butterfly species. Instead, it contrasts with the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 1c36e3e1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1c36e3e1
The number of dark spots that appear on the Sun, known as sunspots, can vary greatly. For example, there were about
180 sunspots in November 2001. ______ there were only about 2 sunspots in December 2008.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In other words,

B. Similarly,

C. Therefore,

D. By comparison,

ID: 1c36e3e1 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. The first sentence claims that the number of sunspots can vary greatly. To support this
claim, the next two sentences compare two examples: one time when there were 180 sunspots and one time when there
were only 2 sunspots. So the transition “by comparison” fits perfectly.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a restatement of the same idea, which doesn’t make
sense here. This sentence doesn’t restate the first example—it describes a totally different example. Choice B is
incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of a similar idea, which doesn’t make sense here. This
sentence describes a second example that is very different from the first example. Choice C is incorrect. This choice
uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. The first example didn’t result in the second example.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 0839a4b9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0839a4b9
The Coastal Futures Conservatory in Virginia is known for creating aural representations of ecological data. One such
effort combines underwater audio recorded in seagrass beds with data that track rising carbon levels in the seagrass. As
carbon levels increase, the audio is correspondingly distorted; ______ listeners can “hear” the changes in the carbon
levels.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. furthermore,

B. by comparison,

C. for instance,

D. thus,

ID: 0839a4b9 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Thus" logically signals that the information in this clause—that listeners can "hear" carbon
levels increasing—is a result of the previous information about the audio distorting as carbon levels increase.

Choice A is incorrect because "furthermore" illogically signals that the information in this clause merely adds to the
previous information about the audio distorting as carbon levels rise. Instead, the listeners’ ability to "hear" carbon levels
increasing is a result of that distortion. Choice B is incorrect because "by comparison" illogically signals that the
information in this clause is being compared to the information about the audio distorting as carbon levels rise. Instead,
the listeners’ ability to "hear" carbon levels increasing is a result of that distortion. Choice C is incorrect because "for
instance" illogically signals that the information in this clause is an example of how the audio distorts as carbon levels
rise. Instead, the audio was distorted for the express purpose of representing ecological data; the listeners’ ability to
"hear" carbon levels increasing is a direct, intended result of the distortion, not merely an example of it.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID ff1a2e5e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ff1a2e5e
Historians agree that the jazz pianist Jelly Roll Morton was exaggerating when he claimed to have invented jazz music.
No one can deny, ______ that Morton’s innovative compositions and remarkable improvisational skills helped shape jazz
as a genre during its early years.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. therefore,

B. in the second place,

C. in other words,

D. though,

ID: ff1a2e5e Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Though" logically signals that the claim in the sentence—that Morton’s improvisational
skills helped shape jazz as a genre during its early years ("No one can deny" it)—is true despite the previous information
about Morton’s exaggerated claim to have invented jazz.

Choice A is incorrect because "therefore" illogically signals that the claim in the sentence is a result of the previous
information about Morton’s claim to have invented jazz. Instead, the sentence states that Morton helped to shape jazz—
even if his claim was an exaggeration. Choice B is incorrect because "in the second place" illogically signals that the
claim in the sentence is a second, separate point in addition to Morton’s claim to have invented jazz. Instead, the
sentence states that Morton helped to shape jazz—even if his claim was an exaggeration. Choice C is incorrect because
"in other words" illogically signals that the claim in the sentence is merely a paraphrase or restatement of the previous
information about Morton’s claim to have invented jazz. Instead, the sentence states that Morton helped to shape jazz—
even if his claim was an exaggeration.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID ab1f424a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ab1f424a
Working together with the Navajo Nation Department of Water Resources, Dr. Lani Tsinnajinnie analyzed data about
snowpack levels in the Chuska Mountains. She found that the snowpack (the amount of snow on the ground) was
deepest in early March at lower elevations. At higher elevations, ______ the snowpack was deepest in mid-March.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in other words,

B. for instance,

C. on the other hand,

D. in summary,

ID: ab1f424a Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. "On the other hand" logically signals that the information in the sentence—that the
snowpack at higher elevations in the Chuska Mountains was deepest in mid-March—contrasts with the previous
information about the snowpack at lower elevations being deepest in early March.

Choice A is incorrect because "in other words" illogically signals that information in the sentence is merely a paraphrase
or restatement of the previous information about the snowpack at lower elevations. Instead, the information about the
snowpack at higher elevations contrasts with that information. Choice B is incorrect because "for instance" illogically
signals that the information in the sentence exemplifies the previous information about the snowpack at lower
elevations. Instead, the information about the snowpack at higher elevations contrasts with that information. Choice D is
incorrect because "in summary" illogically signals that the information in the sentence summarizes the previous
information about the snowpack at lower elevations. Instead, the information about the snowpack at higher elevations
contrasts with that information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 82ec9628
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 82ec9628
Archaeologist Sue Brunning explains why the seventh-century ship burial site at Sutton Hoo in England was likely the
tomb of a king. First, the gold artifacts inside the ship suggest that the person buried with them was a wealthy and
respected leader. ______ the massive effort required to bury the ship would likely only have been undertaken for a king.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Instead,

B. Still,

C. Specifically,

D. Second,

ID: 82ec9628 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Second” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the effort to bury the
ship would likely only have been made for a king—joins the information in the previous sentence (“first…”) in supporting
Brunning’s claim that the burial site was likely the tomb of a king.

Choice A is incorrect because “instead” illogically signals that the information in this sentence presents an alternative or
substitute to the previous information about the gold artifacts inside the ship. Rather, this sentence presents a second
piece of information that supports Brunning’s claim. Choice B is incorrect because “still” illogically signals that the
information in this sentence exists in contrast to or despite the previous information about the gold artifacts inside the
ship. Instead, this sentence presents a second piece of information that supports Brunning’s claim. Choice C is incorrect
because “specifically” illogically signals that the information in this sentence specifies or elaborates on the previous
information about the gold artifacts inside the ship. Instead, this sentence presents a second piece of information that
supports Brunning’s claim.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 4f2710ab
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4f2710ab
Organisms have evolved a number of surprising adaptations to ensure their survival in adverse conditions. Tadpole
shrimp (Triops longicaudatus) embryos, ______ can pause development for over ten years during extended periods of
drought.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in contrast,

B. for example,

C. meanwhile,

D. consequently,

ID: 4f2710ab Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “For example” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that tadpole shrimp
embryos can pause development during extended periods of drought—exemplifies the previous sentence’s claim that
organisms have evolved surprising adaptations to survive in adverse conditions.

Choice A is incorrect because “in contrast” illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the
claim about organisms in the previous sentence. Instead, it exemplifies this claim. Choice C is incorrect because
“meanwhile” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is separate from (while occurring simultaneously
with) the claim about organisms in the previous sentence. Instead, it exemplifies this claim. Choice D is incorrect
because “consequently” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a consequence, or result, of the claim
about organisms in the previous sentence. Instead, it exemplifies this claim.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 480ade7e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 480ade7e
In response to adverse environmental conditions, many plants produce abscisic acid (ABA), a stress hormone. ABA
triggers a slowdown in the biological processes of most plants. ______ when the mustard plant Schrenkiella parvula
produces ABA in response to an environmental stressor, the hormone triggers accelerated growth.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Moreover,

B. In contrast,

C. For example,

D. Thus,

ID: 480ade7e Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “In contrast” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that ABA triggers
accelerated growth in the mustard plant Schrenkiella parvula—contrasts with the previous information about ABA
triggering a slowdown in most plants’ biological processes.

Choice A is incorrect because “moreover” illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the mustard plant
merely adds to the previous information about the effects of ABA. Instead, it contrasts with that information. Choice C is
incorrect because “for example” illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the mustard plant provides
an example consistent with the previous information about the effects of ABA. Instead, it contrasts with that information.
Choice D is incorrect because “thus” illogically signals that the information in this sentence about the mustard plant is a
consequence, or result, of the previous information about the effects of ABA. Instead, it contrasts with that information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 34a5ba1c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 34a5ba1c
By 1936, Spanish Romani dancer Carmen Amaya was known all over Spain for her powerful style of flamenco dancing.
However, in July of that year, the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War made it difficult for her to perform in her home
country. ______ Amaya left Spain to perform abroad, dancing for audiences across North and South America.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In comparison,

B. As a result,

C. First of all,

D. For example,

ID: 34a5ba1c Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “As a result” logically signals that the information in this sentence about Amaya leaving
Spain to perform abroad is a result of the previous information about the Spanish Civil War.

Choice A is incorrect because “in comparison” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is being compared
to the previous information about the Spanish Civil War. Instead, Amaya leaving Spain is a result of that war. Choice C is
incorrect because “first of all” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is the beginning of a sequence of
events. Instead, Amaya leaving Spain is a result of the event (the outbreak of war) described in the previous sentence.
Choice D is incorrect because “for example” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is an example
supporting the previous statement about the Spanish Civil War. Instead, Amaya leaving Spain is a result of that war.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 2b5e0731
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2b5e0731
With darkness falling, a mother elephant loses sight of her calf and wants to make sure it is safe. ______ she releases an
infrasonic call for the calf to hear. Infrasonic sound is below the range of human hearing, but many animals can hear
these sounds from several miles away.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. For this reason,

C. Nowadays,

D. Similarly,

ID: 2b5e0731 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "For this reason" is a cause-and-effect transition. The cause in this case is that the mother
elephant wants to know that her calf is safe, so the effect is that she lets out an infrasonic call for the calf to hear.
Therefore, "for this reason" fits perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that introduces an example of a previous idea. But the second
sentence doesn’t provide an example of the events described in the first sentence. Instead, it describes what happens
next: the mother elephant calls for her calf. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a shift from
the past to the current time, which doesn’t make sense here. Both sentences use the present tense, as they’re describing
the same time period. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates commonality or agreement
between two ideas. But this sentence isn’t similar to the events in the first sentence. Instead, it describes the events that
happen next.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID ac8eb085
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ac8eb085
“O2 Arena,” an award-winning science fiction story by Nigerian author Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, takes place in an
alternate version of Nigeria where breathable air is a rare commodity that is owned and sold by companies. ______ people
must purchase it with currency called O2 credits.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. As a result,

B. In any case,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Earlier,

ID: ac8eb085 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. The second sentence describes a consequence of the system laid out in the first sentence:
because air is owned and sold by companies in this world, people have to buy it.

Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that means “no matter what happens” or “whatever the situation is,”
which doesn’t make sense here. There’s only one situation described in the text: a fictional world in which companies
own all the breathable air, forcing people to buy it. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But
this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous sentence. They both describe the same fictional situation. Choice D is
incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates a shift back in time, which doesn’t make sense here. Both
sentences use the present tense, as they’re describing the same fictional time period.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 37957752
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 37957752
As biologist Terrie Williams has documented, deep dives present a challenge for seals and other marine mammals. A
seal must exert enough energy to propel itself hundreds of meters downward, while keeping its heart rate low enough
that it doesn’t run out of oxygen while underwater. ______ a seal moves its flippers as little as possible on a deep dive,
gliding to conserve energy.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In the first place,

B. On the other hand,

C. For this reason,

D. In comparison,

ID: 37957752 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “For this reason” logically signals that the behavior described in this sentence is a
consequence of the information about seals in the previous sentence. That is, a seal moves its flippers as little as
possible during a deep dive because it needs to keep its heart rate low enough that it does not run out of oxygen.

Choice A is incorrect because “in the first place” illogically signals that this sentence is the first point in a discussion.
Instead, the sentence describes a behavior that is a consequence of the previous information about seals. Choice B is
incorrect because “on the other hand” illogically signals that the behavior described in this sentence contrasts with the
previous information about seals. Instead, it is a consequence of that information. Choice D is incorrect because “in
comparison” illogically signals that the behavior described in this sentence is being compared to the previous
information about seals. Instead, it is a consequence of that information.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 2b5f4bdc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2b5f4bdc
In the early 1900s, Jovita Idár fought injustice on both sides of the Mexico–United States border. As a reporter for the
Texas newspaper La Crónica, she voiced support for the Mexican people’s revolt against authoritarian rule. ______ she
founded the League of Mexican Women, a group that advocated for the rights of Mexican Americans.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Additionally,

B. In conclusion,

C. For example,

D. Rather,

ID: 2b5f4bdc Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer because “additionally” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Idár
founded the League of Mexican Women—is another instance of Idár fighting injustice, this time advocating for the rights
of Mexican Americans.

Choice B is incorrect because “in conclusion” illogically signals that the information in this sentence sums up or
concludes the discussion of Idár’s support for the Mexican people’s revolt. Instead, the founding of the League of
Mexican Women is a separate instance of Idár fighting injustice. Choice C is incorrect because “for example” illogically
signals that the information in this sentence is an example of how, as a newspaper reporter, Idár voiced support for the
Mexican people’s revolt. Instead, the founding of the League of Mexican Women is a separate instance of Idár fighting
injustice, this time in support of Mexican Americans. Choice D is incorrect because “rather” illogically signals that the
information in this sentence offers a contrast or exception to the previous information about Idár’s support for the
Mexican people’s revolt. Instead, the founding of the League of Mexican Women is a separate instance of Idár fighting
injustice.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 90117366
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 90117366
To explore how blinking affects social interactions, Dutch researchers observed interactions between human speakers
and “listeners” (animated human faces on a screen). The researchers found that when the listeners blinked slowly, the
speakers tended to talk for less time. ______ quicker blinks were associated with longer talking times.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. Specifically,

C. Firstly,

D. By contrast,

ID: 90117366 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “By contrast” logically signals that the finding described in this sentence contrasts with the
finding described in the previous sentence. That is, quicker blinks were associated with longer talking times, whereas
slower blinks were associated with shorter talking times.

Choice A is incorrect because “for example” illogically signals that the finding described in this sentence is an example of
the finding described in the previous sentence. Instead, it contrasts with that finding. Choice B is incorrect because
“specifically” illogically signals that this sentence provides specific, precise details about the finding described in the
previous sentence. Instead, it presents information that contrasts with that finding. Choice C is incorrect because “firstly”
illogically signals that the finding described in this sentence is a first point or occurs first in a chronological sequence of
events. Instead, it contrasts with the finding described in the previous sentence.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID a204d618
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a204d618
In 1949, Frank Zamboni developed an ice rink resurfacing machine. As Zamboni’s machine moved along the rink’s
surface, it first scraped off the top layer of ice. ______ it sprayed water into the deep grooves left behind by customers’
skates. Lastly, it smoothed over the newly formed ice.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. Next,

C. Similarly,

D. In contrast,

ID: a204d618 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Next" logically signals that the action in this sentence—the water spraying—is the next step
in the resurfacing process, following the ice scraping mentioned in the previous sentence.

Choice A is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that the action in this sentence is an example of the action
in the previous sentence. Instead, the water spraying is the next step in a process that begins with the ice scraping.
Choice C is incorrect because "similarly" illogically signals that the action in this sentence is similar to the action in the
previous sentence. Instead, the water spraying is the next step in a process that begins with the ice scraping. Choice D is
incorrect because "in contrast" illogically signals that the action in this sentence contrasts with the action in the previous
sentence. Instead, the water spraying is the next step in a process that begins with the ice scraping.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID b6ebadf6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: b6ebadf6
There are three basic steps you should follow when planning a scientific inquiry. First, thoroughly research the question
you wish to answer. ______ come up with a prediction (also called a hypothesis) about the answer to your question. Third,
develop an experiment that can test the accuracy of your hypothesis.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Therefore,

B. Instead,

C. For example,

D. Second,

ID: b6ebadf6 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Second" logically signals that the activity described in this sentence—coming up with a
prediction—is the next step in the three-part sequence of steps described in the text.

Choice A is incorrect because "therefore" illogically signals that coming up with a prediction is a result or consequence of
the activity described in the previous sentence: researching a question. While a prediction may be influenced by prior
research, these activities are distinct steps in planning a scientific inquiry. Coming up with a prediction is the next step in
the three-part sequence of steps described in the text. Choice B is incorrect because "instead" illogically signals that
coming up with a prediction is an alternative to the activity described in the previous sentence: researching a question.
Rather, coming up with a prediction is the next step in the three-part sequence of steps described in the text. Choice C is
incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that coming up with a prediction is an example of the activity
described in the previous sentence: researching a question. Instead, coming up with a prediction is the next step in the
three-part sequence of steps described in the text.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 52b31d7b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 52b31d7b
In November 1934, Amrita Sher-Gil was living in what must have seemed like the ideal city for a young artist: Paris. She
was studying firsthand the color-saturated style of France’s modernist masters and beginning to make a name for herself
as a painter. ______ Sher-Gil longed to return to her childhood home of India; only there, she believed, could her art truly
flourish.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Still,

B. Therefore,

C. Indeed,

D. Furthermore,

ID: 52b31d7b Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Still” logically signals that the information about Sher-Gil in this sentence—that she longed
to leave Paris and return to India—contrasts with what one would expect after reading about Sher-Gil’s experiences in
Paris in the previous sentences.

Choice B is incorrect because “therefore” illogically signals that the information about Sher-Gil in this sentence is a result
or consequence of the descriptions in the previous sentences. Instead, this information contrasts with what one would
expect after reading about Sher-Gil’s experiences in Paris. Choice C is incorrect because “indeed” illogically signals that
the information about Sher-Gil in this sentence offers additional emphasis in support of the descriptions in the previous
sentences. Instead, this information contrasts with what one would expect after reading about Sher-Gil’s experiences in
Paris. Choice D is incorrect because “furthermore” illogically signals that the information about Sher-Gil in this sentence
offers additional support for or confirmation of the descriptions in the previous sentences. Instead, this information
contrasts with what one would expect after reading about Sher-Gil’s experiences in Paris.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 1996c104
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 1996c104
The liquid metals in Earth’s core circulate constantly, and this circulation generates electrical currents that flow between
Earth’s North and South magnetic poles. These electrical currents, ______ create a barrier around Earth that protects us
from radiation and charged particles coming from space.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in turn,

B. likewise,

C. nevertheless,

D. in reality,

ID: 1996c104 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "In turn" logically signals that the information in the sentence—that the electrical currents
create a protective barrier around Earth—is a result or consequence of the previous information about the circulation of
liquid metals generating electrical currents that flow between Earth’s magnetic poles.

Choice B is incorrect because "likewise" illogically signals that the information in the sentence is similar to the previous
information about the circulation of liquid metals generating electrical currents that flow between Earth’s magnetic poles.
Instead, the new information about the electrical currents is a direct result or consequence of the previous information.
Choice C is incorrect because "nevertheless" illogically signals that the information in the sentence is true despite the
previous information about the circulation of liquid metals generating electrical currents that flow between Earth’s
magnetic poles. Instead, the new information about the electrical currents is a direct result or consequence of the
previous information. Choice D is incorrect because "in reality" illogically signals that the information in the sentence
contradicts the previous information about the circulation of liquid metals generating electrical currents that flow
between Earth’s magnetic poles. Instead, the new information about the electrical currents is a direct result or
consequence of the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID bfb4e85e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: bfb4e85e
Ballet dancer Misty Copeland has accomplished a lot. She has appeared on Broadway, toured with Prince, and even
served on the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition. ______ according to Copeland, nothing in her career
matches the honor of being the first African American woman named principal dancer at the prestigious American Ballet
Theatre.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Thus,

B. However,

C. For example,

D. Second of all,

ID: bfb4e85e Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "However" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that nothing in Copeland’s
career matches her accomplishment of being the first African American woman named principal dancer at the American
Ballet Theatre—offers a contrast or exception to the previous information about Copeland’s accomplishments.

Choice A is incorrect because "thus" illogically signals that the information that follows is a result of the previous
information about Copeland’s accomplishments. Instead, the statement that nothing in Copeland’s career matches this
accomplishment offers a contrast or exception to that information. Choice C is incorrect because "for example" illogically
signals that Copeland’s statement about her greatest accomplishment exemplifies the claim about her accomplishments
in the previous sentence. Instead, it offers a contrast or exception to that information. Choice D is incorrect because
"second of all" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a second, separate claim from the previous
sentence’s information about her accomplishments. Instead, the statement that nothing in Copeland’s career matches
this accomplishment offers a contrast or exception to that information.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f5a00eff
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: f5a00eff
If the formation of Earth’s mantle had been purely a product of core differentiation—whereby heavier elements sink
toward the core and lighter elements rise—the upper mantle would be depleted of heavy siderophile elements.
Siderophiles are much more abundant in the mantle than predicted in that model, however. ______ extraterrestrial material
containing siderophiles, likely from asteroid or comet impacts, almost certainly accreted to Earth following core
differentiation.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. That said,

B. Hence,

C. For example,

D. Likewise,

ID: f5a00eff Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "Hence" correctly signals that the claim in this sentence regarding extraterrestrial material
follows logically from the information in the previous sentences. The previous sentences establish that siderophile
elements in the mantle are more abundant than predicted in the core-differentiation model. This sentence claims,
logically, that these elements came from extraterrestrial material that accreted to Earth after core differentiation.

Choice A is incorrect because "that said" illogically signals that the information in this sentence regarding extraterrestrial
material is an exception to the previous information about siderophiles’ abundance in the mantle. Instead, it is a new
claim that follows logically from the previous information. Choice C is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals
that the information in this sentence regarding extraterrestrial material exemplifies the previous information about
siderophiles’ abundance in the mantle. Instead, it is a new claim that follows logically from the previous information.
Choice D is incorrect because "likewise" illogically signals that the information in this sentence regarding extraterrestrial
material is merely similar to the previous information about siderophiles’ abundance in the mantle. Instead, it is a new
claim that follows logically from the previous information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2bda9edb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2bda9edb
In 1885, Chinese-born California resident Mary Tape became a hero of the Asian American civil rights movement. In
January of that year, she won an antidiscrimination case in the California Supreme Court. ______ in April, she wrote an
open letter criticizing her local board of education for discrimination. Both actions are remembered today as historic
stands against racism.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Later,

B. For instance,

C. In other words,

D. Rather,

ID: 2bda9edb Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Later” logically signals that the letter-writing discussed in this sentence occurred later in a
chronological sequence of events than did the antidiscrimination case discussed in the previous sentence.

Choice B is incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that the letter-writing discussed in this sentence is an
example of the antidiscrimination case discussed in the previous sentence. Instead, the letter-writing is an event that
occurred after the court case. Choice C is incorrect because “in other words” illogically signals that the letter-writing
discussed in this sentence is a paraphrase or restatement of the antidiscrimination case discussed in the previous
sentence. Instead, the letter-writing is an event that occurred after the court case. Choice D is incorrect because “rather”
illogically signals that the letter-writing discussed in this sentence is an alternative to the antidiscrimination case
discussed in the previous sentence. Instead, the letter-writing is an event that occurred after the court case.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID fc95a352
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: fc95a352
When designing costumes for film, American artist Suttirat Larlarb typically custom fits the garments to each actor.
______ for the film Sunshine, in which astronauts must reignite a dying Sun, she designed a golden spacesuit and had a
factory reproduce it in a few standard sizes; lacking a tailor-made quality, the final creations reflected the ungainliness of
actual spacesuits.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Nevertheless,

B. Thus,

C. Likewise,

D. Moreover,

ID: fc95a352 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Nevertheless” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the spacesuits
Suttirat Larlarb designed for the film Sunshine were made in standard sizes in a factory—presents a notable exception to
Larlarb’s typical approach of custom-fitting garments to actors, which is described in the previous sentence.

Choice B is incorrect because “thus” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a result or consequence of
the previous information about Larlarb’s typical approach of custom-fitting garments to actors. Instead, it presents a
notable exception to Larlarb’s typical approach. Choice C is incorrect because “likewise” illogically signals that the
information in this sentence is similar to the previous information about Larlarb’s typical approach of custom-fitting
garments to actors. Instead, it presents a notable exception to Larlarb’s typical approach. Choice D is incorrect because
“moreover” illogically signals that the information in this sentence merely adds to the previous information about
Larlarb’s typical approach of custom-fitting garments to actors. Instead, it presents a notable exception to Larlarb’s
typical approach.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 42d92dea
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 42d92dea
Before it unveiled a massive new gallery in 2009, the Art Institute of Chicago was only able to display about 5% of its art
collection. ______ the museum is able to display close to 30% of its collection.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Additionally,

B. For example,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Today,

ID: 42d92dea Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Today" logically signals that the information in the sentence—that the museum is able to
display close to 30% of its collection—is true of the Art Institute of Chicago as it exists in the present day after the
previously mentioned unveiling of the massive new gallery in 2009.

Choice A is incorrect because "additionally" illogically signals that the information in the sentence is merely an additional
fact related to the information about the museum before the new gallery opened. Instead, the sentence is about the
museum in the present day after the new gallery opened. Choice B is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals
that the information in the sentence exemplifies the previous information about the museum before the new gallery
opened. Instead, the sentence is about the museum in the present day after the new gallery opened. Choice C is incorrect
because "nevertheless" illogically signals that the information in the sentence is true despite the previous information
about the museum before the new gallery opened. Instead, the sentence is about the museum in the present day after
the new gallery opened.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 87d8a2ff
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 87d8a2ff
During a 2021 launch, Rocket Labs’ Electron rocket experienced an unexpected failure: its second-stage booster shut
down suddenly after ignition. ______ instead of downplaying the incident, Rocket Labs’ CEO publicly acknowledged what
happened and apologized for the loss of the rocket’s payload, which had consisted of two satellites.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Afterward,

B. Additionally,

C. Indeed,

D. Similarly,

ID: 87d8a2ff Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. “Afterward” logically signals that the events described in this sentence—the CEO’s public
acknowledgment and apology—occurred after the rocket booster’s failure and are part of a chronological sequence of
events.

Choice B is incorrect because “additionally” illogically signals that the events described in this sentence merely occurred
in addition to the rocket booster’s failure. Instead, they occurred after the rocket booster’s failure and are part of a
chronological sequence of events. Choice C is incorrect because “indeed” illogically signals that the events described in
this sentence emphasize or strengthen a statement made in the previous sentence. Instead, they occurred after the
rocket booster’s failure and are part of a chronological sequence of events. Choice D is incorrect because “similarly”
illogically signals that the events described in this sentence are similar to the rocket booster’s failure. Instead, they
occurred after the rocket booster’s failure and are part of a chronological sequence of events.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 855247c7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 855247c7
Mary Ellen Pleasant, a successful entrepreneur during the gold rush era, earned the moniker “Mother of Human Rights in
California” after successfully challenging discrimination in the state. ______ in 1866, she sued a streetcar company for
denying her and other Black riders service, a suit she eventually won when the California Supreme Court declared it illegal
for carriers to exclude passengers based on race.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For this reason,

B. Then,

C. In addition,

D. Specifically,

ID: 855247c7 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Specifically" logically signals that the information about Pleasant’s 1866 lawsuit provides
specific, precise details elaborating on the previous point that Pleasant successfully challenged discrimination in
California.

Choice A is incorrect because "for this reason" illogically signals that Pleasant’s 1866 lawsuit was a result of her
successful challenge to discrimination in California. Instead, this sentence provides specific details elaborating on her
challenge to discrimination in the state. Choice B is incorrect because "then" illogically signals that Pleasant’s 1866
lawsuit was subsequent to or resulted from her successful challenge to discrimination in California. Instead, this
sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on how she challenged discrimination in the state. Choice C is
incorrect because "in addition" illogically signals that the information about Pleasant’s 1866 lawsuit is merely additional
to the previous point that Pleasant successfully challenged discrimination in California. Instead, this sentence provides
specific details elaborating on how she did so.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID a3bf0a9d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: a3bf0a9d
In 2021, a model developed by astrophysicist Catherine Zucker and her research team revealed that the same
supernovas responsible for the creation and ongoing expansion of the Local Bubble—a 14-million-year-old cavity in the
Milky Way—are likely responsible for the formation of new stars. ______ this model detailed how the bubble’s expansion
trapped interstellar clouds of gas and dust that became stars upon their eventual collapse.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Hence,

B. However,

C. Admittedly,

D. Specifically,

ID: a3bf0a9d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Specifically" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that the Local Bubble’s
expansion trapped clouds of gas and dust that formed new stars—provides specific, precise details elaborating on the
more general information in the previous sentence about the relationship between the Local Bubble’s expansion and the
formation of new stars.

Choice A is incorrect because "hence" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a result of the
information in the previous sentence about the relationship between the Local Bubble’s expansion and the formation of
new stars. Instead, this sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on that information. Choice B is incorrect
because "however" illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the information in the previous
sentence about the relationship between the Local Bubble’s expansion and the formation of new stars. Instead, this
sentence provides specific, precise details elaborating on that information. Choice C is incorrect because "admittedly"
illogically signals that the information in this sentence provides an exception or caveat to the previous information about
the relationship between the Local Bubble’s expansion and the formation of new stars. Instead, this sentence provides
specific, precise details elaborating on that information.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 4154a7a3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4154a7a3
In 1891, dancer and choreographer Loie Fuller first performed her celebrated Serpentine Dance, artfully twirling her long,
flowing skirt to create striking visual effects. ______ in 1896, cinema pioneers Auguste and Louis Lumière made a
groundbreaking short film of Fuller’s dance.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. However,

B. In conclusion,

C. Later,

D. In other words,

ID: 4154a7a3 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “Later” logically signals that the event discussed in this sentence—the creation of the short
film featuring Fuller’s dance—is a related event that occurred after the event discussed in the previous sentence (the
1891 debut of the dance).

Choice A is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the
information in the previous sentence. Instead, the creation of the short film is a related event that followed the event
discussed in the previous sentence. Choice B is incorrect because “in conclusion” illogically signals that the information
in this sentence concludes or summarizes the information in the previous sentence. Instead, the creation of the short
film is a related event that followed the event discussed in the previous sentence. Choice D is incorrect because “in other
words” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a paraphrase or restatement of the information in the
previous sentence. Instead, the creation of the short film is a related event that followed the event discussed in the
previous sentence.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 4703eafb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 4703eafb
Following the American Revolutionary War, North American foodways underwent a radical transformation, fueled in large
part by spiking consumer demand for certain grains. The cultivation, trade, and transportation of maize and wheat, ______
reconfigured the continent’s existing regional foodways into a globally oriented food system.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in particular,

B. alternatively,

C. by comparison,

D. second of all,

ID: 4703eafb Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "In particular" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that maize and wheat
supply chains transformed North American foodways into a global food system—provides specific, precise details
elaborating on the more general information in the previous sentence about the transformation of North American
foodways (with maize and wheat the "certain grains" at the center of it).

Choice B is incorrect because "alternatively" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is an alternative
option to the previous information about the transformation of North American foodways. Instead, the roles of maize and
wheat in creating a global food system are specific, precise details elaborating on that information. Choice C is incorrect
because "by comparison" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is being compared to the previous
information about the transformation of North American foodways. Instead, the roles of maize and wheat in creating a
global food system are specific, precise details elaborating on that information. Choice D is incorrect because "second of
all" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a second, separate claim from the previous claim that North
American foodways were transformed. Instead, the roles of maize and wheat in creating a global food system are
specific, precise details elaborating on that information, rather than a separate claim.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID b5a399f1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: b5a399f1
Following the Mata Ortiz pottery technique, Mexican sculptor Juan Quezada Celado starts by creating the base of the pot
with a slab of clay. ______ he builds the pot walls by layering coils of clay around the perimeter of the base. Celado then
smooths out the pot’s walls with a hacksaw blade. At last, the pot is ready to be painted.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For example,

B. However,

C. By contrast,

D. Next,

ID: b5a399f1 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. "Next" logically signals that the information in this sentence—which explains how Celado
builds the pot’s walls—is the next step in Celado’s pot creation process. The sentences that follow further signal this
information by completing the process.

Choice A is incorrect because "for example" illogically signals that the information about Celado building pot walls in this
sentence exemplifies the information in the previous sentence about how Celado’s pot creation process begins. Instead,
it is the next step in this process. Choice B is incorrect because "however" illogically signals that the information in this
sentence contrasts with the information in the previous sentence about how Celado’s pot creation process begins.
Instead, it is the next step in this process. Choice C is incorrect because "by contrast" illogically signals that the
information in this sentence contrasts with the information in the previous sentence about how Celado’s pot creation
process begins. Instead, it is the next step in this process.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 9c78f702
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 9c78f702
Phytoplankton play a crucial role in the ocean’s uptake of carbon from the atmosphere. When alive, these tiny marine
organisms absorb atmospheric carbon via photosynthesis. ______ after they die, the phytoplankton sink to the seafloor,
where the carbon in their cells gets stored in sediment, preventing it from cycling back into the atmosphere.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Specifically,

B. By contrast,

C. Nevertheless,

D. Then,

ID: 9c78f702 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Then” logically signals that the event described in this sentence—carbon in phytoplankton
cells being trapped in sediment after the organisms have died—occurs later in a chronological sequence than the event
described in the previous sentence (phytoplankton absorbing carbon while alive).

Choice A is incorrect because “specifically” illogically signals that the information that follows provides specific, precise
details elaborating on the previous information about what phytoplankton do when alive. Instead, this sentence explains
what happens after phytoplankton die—a later step in the chronological sequence of events. Choice B is incorrect
because “by contrast” illogically signals that the information that follows contrasts with the previous information about
what phytoplankton do when alive. Instead, this sentence explains what happens after phytoplankton die—a later step in
the chronological sequence of events. There is no contrast: in both life and death, phytoplankton contribute to the
ocean’s carbon uptake. Choice C is incorrect because “nevertheless” illogically signals that the information that follows is
in spite of the previous information about what phytoplankton do when alive. Instead, this sentence explains what
happens after phytoplankton die—a later step in the chronological sequence of events. There is no contrast: in both life
and death, phytoplankton contribute to the ocean’s carbon uptake.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 2ba97187
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 2ba97187
Upon first approaching artist Kurt Wenner’s Dies Irae, a colorful scene painted on the surface of a cobblestone street in
Mantua, Italy, one might assume a deep hole filled with life-sized, classically styled sculptures had opened up in the
street. ______ by expertly applying the principles of perspective, Wenner created merely the illusion of depth.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Additionally,

B. On the contrary,

C. As a result,

D. Next,

ID: 2ba97187 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. "On the contrary" logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Dies Irae’s
appearance of depth is merely an illusion—contrasts with the previous statement about a viewer’s possible assumption
regarding the street painting.

Choice A is incorrect because "additionally" illogically signals that this sentence is simply additional information about a
viewer’s possible assumption regarding the street painting. Instead, the information about how Wenner achieved the
illusion of depth contrasts with the previous sentence’s description of the illusion. Choice C is incorrect because "as a
result" illogically signals that the information in this sentence is a result of, or caused by, a viewer’s possible assumption
regarding the street painting. Instead, the information about how Wenner achieved the illusion of depth contrasts with the
previous sentence’s description of the illusion. Choice D is incorrect because "next" illogically signals that the information
in this sentence is the next step in a process. Instead, the information about how Wenner achieved the illusion of depth
contrasts with the previous sentence’s description of the illusion.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d3898d32
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: d3898d32
Riley Black—the author of critically acclaimed books such as My Beloved Brontosaurus (2013)—is best known for writing
about dinosaurs, but she has also conducted hands-on fieldwork. ______ her fieldwork has included paleontological digs
in Utah, Montana, and Wyoming, and her dinosaur fossil discoveries can be seen at places such as the Carnegie Museum
of Natural History.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Regardless,

B. Subsequently,

C. Specifically,

D. Conversely,

ID: d3898d32 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The second sentence provides more specific information about the fieldwork mentioned in
the first sentence—that the paleontological digs took place in Utah, Montana, and Wyoming. Therefore, “specifically” fits
perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous
sentence. Rather, this sentence agrees with and elaborates on the last sentence by providing more specifics about the
fieldwork Black does. Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates that an event took place after
another event. But the two sentences are not describing different events—instead, this sentence gives more details about
the fieldwork discussed in the first sentence. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this
sentence doesn’t disagree with the previous sentence. Rather, this sentence agrees with and elaborates on the last
sentence by providing more specifics about the fieldwork Black does.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID de0bcf4f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: de0bcf4f
Spanish surrealist Oscar Dominguez, like many of his contemporaries, wanted to incorporate elements of chance and
randomness in his artistic process. ______ he employed techniques that produced random, unpredictable results, such as
decalcomania, which involved pressing a blank canvas onto a paint-covered surface to generate abstract patterns.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. With this in mind,

B. On the contrary,

C. In conclusion,

D. Regardless,

ID: de0bcf4f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is the best answer. "With this in mind" logically signals that the activity described in this sentence—Dominguez’s
use of techniques like decalcomania to produce unpredictable abstract patterns—is a result of his desire to include
random elements in his art.

Choice B is incorrect. "On the contrary" illogically signals that the activity in this sentence opposes or is contrary to
Dominguez’s desire to use random elements in his art. Instead, his use of decalcomania is a result of that desire. Choice
C is incorrect. "In conclusion" illogically signals that the activity in this sentence is a conclusion or summary of
Dominguez’s desire to use random elements in his art. Instead, his use of decalcomania is a result of that desire. Choice
D is incorrect. "Regardless" illogically signals that the activity in this sentence occurs despite Dominguez’s desire to use
random elements in his art. Instead, his use of decalcomania is a result of that desire.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID ecb31049
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: ecb31049
The Sun and other stars are powered by nuclear fusion reactions, in which two atoms collide to form a single heavier
atom, releasing energy. Scientists have long believed that fusion has the potential to meet humanity’s clean energy
needs. ______ prior to December 2022, no fusion reaction in a laboratory setting had ever generated a net energy gain.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. For this reason,

B. Moreover,

C. Specifically,

D. That said,

ID: ecb31049 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. Scientists believe in fusion’s potential as an energy source, but have struggled to actually
make it work—in other words, there is a contradiction between scientists’ beliefs and their reality. “That said” is a
disagreement transition that works perfectly in this context.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition, which doesn’t make sense here. Scientists not
being able to generate extra energy from lab fusion reactions isn’t an effect of them believing in fusion’s potential. Choice
B is incorrect. This transition indicates the addition of another supporting point. But this sentence is not adding a
supporting point to the previous sentence—scientists not being able to successfully generate energy from fusion isn’t
another point in favor of fusion meeting humanity’s clean energy needs. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a
transition that introduces or elaborates on a particular example. But this sentence doesn’t give an example of scientists’
belief in fusion’s potential to meet humanity’s clean energy needs—in fact, it contrasts that optimistic belief with the
reality of past failures to successfully employ fusion for energy production.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID eea351c4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: eea351c4
“Wishcycling”—putting nonrecyclable items into recycling bins under the mistaken belief that those items can be recycled
—ultimately does more harm than good. Nonrecyclable items, such as greasy pizza boxes, can contaminate recyclable
materials, rendering entire batches unusable. ______ nonrecyclable products can damage recycling plants’ machinery.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Fittingly,

B. On the contrary,

C. Moreover,

D. Nevertheless,

ID: eea351c4 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. The first sentence tells us that “wishcycling” is harmful, the previous sentence gives us an
example, and this sentence gives us another example. So “moreover”—a transition that indicates the addition of another
supporting point—fits perfectly here.

Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that means “appropriately” or “suitably,” which doesn’t make sense in
context. This sentence adds another example of how “wishcycling” is harmful, so we’re looking for an addition transition.
Choice B is incorrect. This choice uses a disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the previous
sentence. Both provide examples of how “wishcycling” is harmful. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a
disagreement transition. But this sentence actually agrees with the previous sentence. Both provide examples of how
“wishcycling” is harmful.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 0205e563
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 0205e563
At two weeks old, the time their critical socialization period begins, wolves can smell but cannot yet see or hear.
Domesticated dogs, ______ can see, hear, and smell by the end of two weeks. This relative lack of sensory input may help
explain why wolves behave so differently around humans than dogs do: from a very young age, wolves are more wary
and less exploratory.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. in other words,

B. for instance,

C. by contrast,

D. accordingly,

ID: 0205e563 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “By contrast” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that dogs can see, hear,
and smell by the end of two weeks—contrasts with the preceding information (that wolves can smell but not see or hear
at the same age).

Choice A is incorrect because “in other words” illogically signals that the information about domesticated dogs in this
sentence paraphrases the information about wolves in the previous sentence. Instead, the information about dogs
contrasts with what came before. Choice B is incorrect because “for instance” illogically signals that the information
about domesticated dogs in this sentence exemplifies the information about wolves in the previous sentence. Instead,
the information about dogs contrasts with what came before. Choice D is incorrect because “accordingly” illogically
signals that the information about domesticated dogs in this sentence is in accordance with, or results from, the
information about wolves in the previous sentence. Instead, the information about dogs contrasts with what came
before.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 39d1a519
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 39d1a519
To discover which fruit varieties were grown in Italy’s Umbria region before the introduction of industrial farming, botanist
Isabella Dalla Ragione often turns to centuries-old lists of cooking ingredients. ______ she analyzes Renaissance
paintings of Umbria, as they can provide accurate representations of fruits that were grown there long ago.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. In sum,

B. Instead,

C. Thus,

D. Additionally,

ID: 39d1a519 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “Additionally” logically signals that the painting analysis discussed in this sentence is an
additional part of the botany research discussed in the previous sentence. That is, to research which fruits Umbrians
grew in the past, the botanist analyzes old paintings in addition to looking at old lists of ingredients.

Choice A is incorrect because “in sum” illogically signals that the painting analysis discussed in this sentence is a
concluding summary of the botany research discussed in the previous sentence. Instead, the painting analysis is an
additional part of that research. Choice B is incorrect because “instead” illogically signals that the painting analysis
discussed in this sentence is an alternative to the botany research discussed in the previous sentence. Rather, the
painting analysis is an additional part of that research. Choice C is incorrect because “thus” illogically signals that the
painting analysis discussed in this sentence is a result of the botany research discussed in the previous sentence.
Instead, the painting analysis is an additional part of that research.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 6916c8e5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Reading and Writing Expression of Ideas Transitions

ID: 6916c8e5
Laetitia Ky’s hair is her art. Inspired by hairstyles from various African tribes, the Ivorian artist uses wire and thread to
sculpt her hair into all kinds of shapes. ______ she once made her hair into the shape of the continent of Africa—including
the island of Madagascar!

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A. Soon,

B. Elsewhere,

C. For example,

D. However,

ID: 6916c8e5 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is the best answer. “For example” logically signals that the following information about Ky—that she once
shaped her hair to look like Africa—is an example supporting the previous statement that she makes different shapes
with her hair.

Choice A is incorrect because “soon” illogically signals that the event described in this sentence occurred soon after the
statement about Ky making different shapes with her hair. Instead, the sentence provides an example of one of these
shapes. Choice B is incorrect because “elsewhere” illogically signals that the event described in this sentence occurred in
a different place than the statement about Ky making different shapes with her hair. Instead, the sentence provides an
example of one of these shapes. Choice D is incorrect because “however” illogically signals that the information in this
sentence contrasts with the statement that Ky makes different shapes with her hair. Instead, the sentence provides an
example of one of these shapes.

Question Difficulty: Easy